The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has parted ways with Warriors head coach Michael Nees, with immediate effect, following a resolution by the association’s Executive Committee.

ZIFA confirmed the decision and expressed gratitude to the German tactician for his service to Zimbabwean football during his tenure in charge of the senior men’s national team.

“The Zimbabwe Football Association wishes to inform all stakeholders and members of the public that the Executive Committee has resolved to terminate the contract of Mr. Michael Nees with immediate effect,” read part of the statement.

ZIFA commended Nees for his commitment to the national team and his contribution to the development of local football structures.

“The Association takes this opportunity to sincerely thank Mr. Nees for his efforts and contributions to Zimbabwean football during his tenure. His dedication to the game and his service to the national structures are appreciated,” ZIFA said.

Nees, who took over the Warriors’ coaching reins earlier this year, had been leading preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set for December. His dismissal comes at a critical stage as Zimbabwe intensifies its preparations for the continental tournament.

Sources within ZIFA said the decision was part of an ongoing restructuring process aimed at aligning the national team’s technical setup with the association’s broader reform agenda.

“ZIFA remains firmly committed to strengthening its technical development programmes and ensuring continued progress in all areas of the game in line with its reform and restructuring agenda,” the association added.

The football governing body said details regarding the appointment of an interim coach and the transition process will be announced in due course.

Nees’ departure marks yet another significant development in ZIFA’s quest to restore stability, professionalism, and competitive edge to the Warriors setup ahead of major international competitions.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has confirmed that the senior men’s national team, the Warriors, will face Algeria and Qatar in international friendly matches during the upcoming FIFA window as part of preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set for December.

The announcement was made by ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi in Harare on Thursday following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the association and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, represented by Permanent Secretary Moses Mhike.

Magwizi said the choice of opponents was strategic, aimed at providing the Warriors with competitive tests ahead of the continental showpiece.

“We wanted fixtures that truly test our mettle,” said Magwizi. “Algeria and Qatar represent the calibre of opposition we must face to measure our readiness for AFCON, and the choice of these friendlies was deliberate.”

The matches are expected to help the technical team assess player combinations, tactical systems, and overall team cohesion before the AFCON finals.

ZIFA said the fixtures reflect its commitment to ensuring the Warriors receive quality preparation and international exposure in line with the association’s vision of “performance, pride, and professionalism.”

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see football played in schools throughout the year starting in 2026.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi and the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Dr. Moses Mhike signed the agreement in Harare, marking what both described as a major step towards reviving grassroots football in the country.

Magwizi said the initiative will help identify and develop young talent from an early age while giving both boys and girls a structured football program under the school system. “This partnership is about building a future for Zimbabwean football. Schools are where the next generation of stars will be discovered,” he said.

Dr. Mhike hailed the partnership as a milestone in integrating sports and education. “Football will now be part of school life across the country. This program will promote discipline, teamwork and physical health among learners,” he said.

Under the agreement, schools will run year-round football calendars, with teachers trained as coaches and competitions introduced at district and provincial levels. ZIFA will provide technical support, coaching materials and help identify talented players.

The initiative will begin with pilot programs in selected schools in 2026 before expanding nationwide. Both institutions said they aim to restore Zimbabwe’s tradition of producing top footballers through the school system, with a focus on equal opportunities for girls.