Zimbabwe’s Warriors, Kenya, and Zanzibar all featured in a round-robin friendly tournament at Ajou University, meant to put the teams through their paces after participation in the recent Korea Africa Cup of Nations.
The Warriors squad was composed of first team regulars, impact players, and new recruits hoping to stake their claim. The low stakes allowed Warriors captain Orein Jafter-Francis the opportunity to experiment.
Goalkeeper Spencer played infield at right back to make room for Saki, who impressed in nets two years ago at the 2025 KAFCON. Jafter-Francis played left wing and put in a signature performance, driving forward with the ball and applying relentless pressure off of it. On another day, he would have had a dozen goals, but lacked the necessary power in his strikes to best the keepers and their covering defenders.
However, it was Jafter-Francis’s industry that led to the Warriors’ winning goal in their second game. After a 0-0 draw against Zanzibar, the Warriors increased the tempo against Kenya and were rewarded when Jafter-Francis challenged the keeper for a loose ball in the box. The ball broke free for star winger John Heurly Tati, who guided it into an empty net.
The center back pairing of Yan Axel Atebi and Jun stood resolute to help Zimbabwe see out a 1-0 win.
The results were secondary, with match fitness, chemistry building, and tactical experimentation at the fore of the coaching staff’s thinking. Zimbabwe can be happy with the team’s efforts but will note needed improvements in ball retention, buildup play, and shot conversion.
The Warriors are next in action on July 26th for The Liberia Independence Day Tournament. The venue and participating teams are yet to be confirmed.
