Foreign-based members of the Warriors squad will now link up with the national team only six days before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations begins in Morocco on 21 December, following a revised player-release directive from FIFA.

The delay comes after FIFA notified clubs that they are permitted to release players as late as 15 December, altering the earlier arrangement that allowed teams to assemble their full squads by 8 December.

In a statement, ZIFA confirmed the change, noting that both FIFA and CAF had jointly amended the mandatory release date.

“CAF and FIFA have jointly updated the player-release regulations for AFCON 2025. All clubs are now required to release players on or before 15 December 2025. This adjustment replaces the previous 8 December release date and carries major implications for all teams preparing for the tournament,” the statement read.

ZIFA said the new date significantly affects Zimbabwe’s preparations, as the technical team had planned an advanced pre-AFCON camp close to Morocco. The intention was to have the entire squad — including Europe- and South Africa-based players — assemble early for tactical drills, conditioning and early acclimatisation.

“With foreign-based players now guaranteed only from 15 December, the initial preparation plan cannot proceed as designed,” the association said.

According to ZIFA, the shortened window will force the restructuring of training schedules, friendly matches and travel logistics.

“The reduced preparation period squeezes Zimbabwe’s build-up phase and disrupts the training and match sequence the technical team had planned. We will now recalibrate the entire pre-tournament programme within the tighter timelines,” the statement continued.

Despite the setback, ZIFA said it remains committed to ensuring the Warriors are adequately prepared.

“The Association is reviewing the preparation framework to keep the Warriors on a competitive path heading into AFCON 2025. Updated details on revised training and travel arrangements will be announced in due course.”

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Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Retired Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, met with the Warriors on Monday night where he delivered a strong message emphasising discipline, national pride and professionalism as Zimbabwe prepares for its upcoming international assignments.

Addressing the squad, Sanyatwe urged the players to fully embrace the responsibility of representing the country on the continental stage, reminding them that both the nation and government were firmly behind the team.

“The nation stands behind you. The Government stands behind you. Go to Morocco with courage, with dignity, and with belief,” said Sanyatwe.

He challenged the Warriors to seize the moment and restore the country’s football reputation, which has been dented in recent years due to administrative setbacks and the absence of international matches on home soil.

“Write a new chapter for Zimbabwean football — a chapter of pride and professionalism,” he told the players.

The minister’s address comes as the team finalises its preparations for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Morocco, where expectations are high for a competitive and disciplined performance.

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Ten youth teams have confirmed their participation in the 2024 edition of the Marvelous Nakamba Foundation Under-17 football tournament, set to take place on December 13 and 14 in Hwange, the hometown of the Warriors star midfielder.

The annual tournament, now one of the most anticipated grassroots football events in the country, continues to grow in stature as it provides a platform for young players to showcase their talent and potentially earn pathways into professional football.

Tournament organisers say preparations are at an advanced stage, with the participating teams finalised. The confirmed sides include Njube Spurs Academy, Hwange FC, Dete FC, Binga Academy, Victoria Falls Academy, Scottland Academy, G.G. Academy, Biya Academy, Highlanders FC and Nkayi Football Academy.

This year’s edition is expected to draw large crowds, given the rising interest in junior football and the impact the Marvelous Nakamba Foundation has had in promoting youth development across the country.

“The tournament is more than just games; it’s about creating opportunities for young athletes and helping them dream beyond their communities. We are excited to welcome teams from different parts of the country to Hwange,” organisers said.

Local coaches and scouts are also expected to attend, with hopes of identifying emerging talent capable of progressing into academy structures or senior teams. In previous editions, several players impressed and later earned opportunities at top-flight clubs.

Hosting the event in Hwange carries special significance, as the town continues to take pride in Nakamba’s journey from a coal-mining community to the international football stage. Community leaders say the tournament has become a source of inspiration for many young athletes in the region.

Matches will be played over two days, with the final scheduled for the afternoon of December 14. The winning team will receive a trophy, medals and equipment, while individual awards will be given to the tournament’s standout performers.

With all ten teams now confirmed, excitement continues to build as the young footballers prepare to battle for honours in an event that celebrates both sport and community upliftment.