Bulawayo giants Highlanders F.C. have confirmed that defender Andrew Mbeba has signed a new long-term contract extension that will keep him at the club until December 2028.

The announcement, made through an official club statement, secures the future of the highly rated defender amid growing speculation surrounding his next move.

“The Club is delighted to confirm that defender Andrew Mbeba has officially committed his future to the club, signing a contract renewal that will keep him at the Club until December 2028,” Highlanders said.

The renewal follows reports suggesting Mbeba had requested a house as part of his signing package during negotiations. While the club did not comment on the details of the agreement, sources indicated discussions were centred on improving the player’s welfare as part of the new deal.

At the same time, Harare giants Dynamos F.C. were reportedly monitoring developments at Amahlolanyama, fuelling speculation of a possible transfer before the contract extension was finalised.

Mbeba’s decision to remain at Highlanders is viewed as a major boost for the Bulawayo side, who retain one of their key defensive players as they continue preparations for the ongoing season.

Warriors vice-captain Marshall Munetsi has been left out of Zimbabwe’s squad for the upcoming Botswana Four Nations Tournament despite being in impressive scoring form in France.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) on Wednesday announced the squad selected by head coach Mario Marinica for the FIFA international break, during which the Warriors will compete in the regional tournament set for Francistown later this month.

Munetsi’s omission has emerged as the biggest talking point following the announcement, with the midfielder having scored three goals in his last three matches for his French club, Paris FC, highlighting his strong recent form ahead of the international break.

The influential midfielder has been a key figure for the Warriors in recent years and currently serves as the team’s vice-captain, making his absence from the squad particularly notable.

ZIFA did not immediately provide reasons for the decision, leaving supporters speculating.

During the last AFCON 2025 finals in Morocco, Munetsi was left out of the squad due to injury, but he later dismissed the claim during an interview with SABC.

Another notable absentee is Walter Musona, who has again missed out on the squad that travelled to Morocco.

Zimbabwe will take part in the Botswana Four Nations Tournament at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium, with matches scheduled for March 28 and March 31, 2026, as the national team continues rebuilding under Marinica.

Despite Munetsi’s absence, the squad includes several experienced internationals, among them midfielder Marvelous Nakamba, alongside a mix of locally based and overseas players.

Teenage Hadebe leads the defensive options, while Prince Dube, Macauley Bonne, and Tawanda Maswanhise headline the attacking department.

Warriors Squad

Goalkeepers:

Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi FC), Future Sibanda (ZPC Kariba), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford)

Defenders:

Andrew Mbeba (Highlanders), Emmanuel Jalai (Durban City), Corbin Mthunzi (Ipswich Town), Munashe Garananga (Hibernian), Gerald Takwara (Al Itihad Misurata), Isheanesu Mauchi (Chippa United), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Shane Maroodza (FK Sarajevo)

Midfielders:

Bill Antonio (KV Mechelen), Sean Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday), Marvelous Nakamba (Sheffield Wednesday), Jonah Fabisch (FC Erzgebirge Aue), Panashe Makwiramiti (Haverfordwest), Prosper Padera (SJK Seinäjoki)

Forwards:

Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Daniel Musendami (Orlando Pirates), Prince Dube (Young Africans), Macauley Bonne (Billericay Town), Thando Ngwenya (AmaZulu)

Harare football giants Dynamos have received a significant off-field boost after securing a medical partnership deal with a local pharmaceutical company, following their positive start to the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.

Fresh from a comeback 2–1 victory over TelOne at Ascot Stadium in their opening league match, the Glamour Boys continue to strengthen their preparations both on and off the pitch ahead of a demanding campaign. Their next assignment presents a stern challenge as they prepare for a blockbuster clash against traditional rivals Highlanders at Rufaro Stadium.

As the club aims to compete for top honours rather than endure another difficult season battling relegation, Dynamos have prioritised player welfare through strategic partnerships. Crown Pharmacies — formerly known as Diamond Pharmacies — has come on board as a technical medical sponsor, committing to supply essential medical equipment and consumables throughout the season.

The agreement will ensure that team doctor Robert Musara and the medical department are adequately equipped during training sessions and match days.

Dynamos chief executive officer Desmond Bvute welcomed the partnership, describing it as an important step toward improving player welfare and performance.

“We are delighted to have Crown Pharmacies joining us as our medical partner,” said Bvute.

“This partnership is vital for the wellbeing of our players. Injuries have previously affected careers, so having reliable medical support is crucial. It also comes at the perfect time as we begin a new season, and we believe it will motivate the squad.”

Bvute added that the club remains committed to attracting more corporate partnerships as it seeks to create a professional working environment capable of helping players perform at their best.

With the Premier Soccer League becoming increasingly competitive and financially demanding, Dynamos are under pressure to match the operational standards being set by emerging and well-funded clubs.

Crown Pharmacies director George Nyamayaro said the company was proud to associate with one of Zimbabwe’s biggest football brands.

“We are excited to partner Dynamos as their medical technical sponsor,” Nyamayaro said. “They are a massive club, and players deserve access to proper medical care. Supporting sport aligns with our work in the healthcare sector.”

He noted that the partnership was also motivated by the need to protect players’ careers through early and adequate injury management.

“In the past, some talented players saw their careers shortened due to insufficient medical attention. We want to help change that and ensure Dynamos compete strongly against other teams in the league.”

Nyamayaro also confirmed that Crown Pharmacies will assist the club with medical supplies during their participation in the CAF Confederation Cup, ensuring the team is fully supported in continental competitions.