HARARE — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged a US$150,000 bonus per victory for Zimbabwe’s national men’s football team, the Warriors, ahead of their FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria.
If the Warriors win both matches—against Benin on March 20 and Nigeria on March 25—the team will receive a total of US$300,000, in addition to the US$1 million the government has already pledged for the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.
The financial boost announced Thursday comes as Zimbabwe continues to face challenges hosting international matches. The country does not have a FIFA-approved stadium, forcing the Warriors to play their home fixtures in South Africa.
The National Sports Stadium in Harare, the closest to meeting international standards, has been under renovations since 2020, when the Confederation of African Football (CAF) first flagged it for failing to meet requirements.
Mnangagwa’s pledge was announced in a statement by Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) boss Nqobile Magwizi. He did not say if it was Mnangagwa’s personal money, or a government contribution.
“This support underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to the growth and success of football in Zimbabwe and the aspirations of the Warriors as they strive for World Cup qualification,” Magwizi said.
“The nation is urged to rally behind the team, as they carry our hopes and pride onto the field. Zimbabwe stands united behind the Warriors.”
Zimbabwe is bidding to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
