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Betrayed. Silenced. Dropped.

Inside the Munetsi Exclusion That Rocked Zimbabwean Football

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Inside the Munetsi Exclusion That Rocked Zimbabwean Football

Marshall Munetsi will not wear the Warriors jersey at AFCON 2025.

Not because he’s injured. Not because he’s out of form. But because he spoke up.

How does a midfield general, fit, in form, and flying high in Europe, get axed from Zimbabwe’s AFCON 2025 squad without a word of reason?

ZIFA had no answers. Just a shrug. A vague nod to “fitness concerns.” But the truth, as uncovered by Bhorafrika, is far more sinister.

This wasn’t a footballing decision. It was a purge.

When the final Warriors squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was announced, the omission of Marshall Munetsi sent shockwaves through Zimbabwean football. Here was a player in his prime, a midfield general thriving in Europe, respected across the continent, left out without explanation.

But behind the scenes, a far more troubling story was unfolding. One that reveals a toxic cocktail of internal betrayal, administrative vendettas, and a governing body more interested in silencing dissent than building a winning team.

This is not just about a player. It’s about power. And what happens when those in charge feel threatened by those who lead from within.

According to Bhorafrika, it began, as many modern revolutions do, with a message.

In the days leading up to a crucial match against South Africa, the Warriors camp was in disarray. Promised allowances hadn’t been paid. Morale was crumbling. Players were frustrated. Angry. Tired of broken promises.

In a private team WhatsApp group, Munetsi, one of the most senior and respected voices, urged his teammates to consider a boycott. Not out of malice, but out of principle.

To many, it was leadership. To ZIFA, it was mutiny.

What happened next would alter the course of Munetsi’s international career.

Someone, a teammate, a Judas, took a screenshot of Munetsi’s message and sent it to ZIFA official Kudzai Chitima. From there, it spread like wildfire through the corridors of power.

The response was swift and brutal.

Munetsi was summoned. Threatened. Told he would never play for the national team again unless he apologized. Some officials even pushed to have him expelled from camp before the Bafana Bafana game, a move only narrowly avoided.

The damage, however, was done. Trust was broken. The relationship between Munetsi and the administration lay in ruins.

When the AFCON squad was finalized, ZIFA claimed Munetsi was injured. But his club, Wolves, quickly debunked that narrative. In official communication to ZIFA, they confirmed he was 95% fit and expected to be ready for the tournament.

All ZIFA had to do was assess him. They didn’t.

Other players with more serious injuries were called up, examined, and monitored. Munetsi? Ignored.

The message was clear: this wasn’t about fitness. It was about punishment.

If the administration had turned its back on Munetsi, so too had the coach.

Head coach Marian “Mario” Marinica reportedly sent Munetsi a scathing message, expressing disappointment over missed camps, lack of communication, and even his failure to congratulate the team after a win in Qatar.

Then came the final blow: a demand for a written letter pledging future commitment to the national team.

It was an unprecedented move. One that reeked of mistrust and humiliation. One that no other player was asked to endure.

Taken together, the leaked messages, the threats, the injury smokescreen, the coach’s coldness, the picture becomes painfully clear.

Munetsi wasn’t dropped. He was targeted.

ZIFA turned a player’s call for accountability into a disciplinary offense. They weaponized a private conversation. They spun a false injury narrative. And they painted a loyal servant of the game as a disruptive force.

It’s a pattern Zimbabwean fans have seen before. And it’s one that continues to haunt the national team.

Munetsi’s exclusion is not an isolated incident. It’s a symptom of a deeper rot within Zimbabwean football.

An environment where speaking up is punished. Where leadership is feared. Where politics trumps performance.

If a player of Munetsi’s caliber can be cast aside for demanding professionalism, what hope is there for the rest?

What message does this send to young players dreaming of donning the national jersey?

And what future does Zimbabwean football have when its best are treated as threats?

ZIFA has yet to offer a credible explanation.

But their silence speaks volumes.

Until accountability replaces ego, and leadership is embraced rather than feared, the Warriors will remain a team at war with itself.

And the nation will continue to pay the price.

Football

Coca-Cola Brings FIFA World Cup 2026 Fever to Zimbabwe

Harare, Zimbabwe — Coca-Cola Zimbabwe has launched a nationwide campaign to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ closer to fans, transforming everyday moments into unforgettable football celebrations.

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Harare, ZimbabweCoca-Cola Zimbabwe has launched a nationwide campaign to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ closer to fans, transforming everyday moments into unforgettable football celebrations.

Turning Zimbabwe Into a Football Hub

Running from June 1 to August 31, the campaign will deliver immersive fan experiences across retail outlets, entertainment venues, restaurants, and quick-service hubs. From interactive in-store activations to dynamic digital engagement, Coca-Cola is ensuring that Zimbabweans feel part of the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Fans stand a chance to win prizes including two Hyundai Grand i10 vehicles, cash, airtime, and more by purchasing participating Coca-Cola 300ml RGB packs with yellow caps.

Football as a Shared Emotion

Faith Nehanda, Senior Manager, Frontline Marketing for Coca-Cola East and Central Africa, emphasized the emotional power of football:


“Football is more than a game—it’s a shared emotion that brings billions of people together, especially during the FIFA World Cup 26™. This campaign is about harnessing the incredible energy and emotional highs and lows that only the FIFA World Cup can deliver, and turning them into real, meaningful connections.”

Fan Engagement Across Zimbabwe

The campaign is designed for all fans — from die-hard collectors of World Cup kits to casual supporters who enjoy highlights and the festive atmosphere. With the 2026 tournament introducing more teams, more players, and more matches than ever before, Coca-Cola is positioning itself as the essential companion for every fan, through every goal and every emotion.

Elevating the Sports Experience

By activating across retail and social spaces, Coca-Cola is not only refreshing fans but also elevating how Zimbabweans watch and celebrate football. Whether cheering in local bars, at home with family, or online with friends, the brand is ensuring that the World Cup spirit is felt nationwide.

A Celebration Beyond the Pitch

Coca-Cola’s campaign underscores its long-standing partnership with FIFA, spanning nearly five decades. More than just a beverage, Coca-Cola is presenting itself as a cultural connector — bringing Zimbabweans closer to the drama, passion, and unity that define the World Cup.

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Football

Win a Car with Coca-Cola’s FIFA World Cup Competition!

Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup partner, has unveiled an electrifying competition that promises to bring fans closer to the action while celebrating the world’s biggest football tournament.

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Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup partner, has kicked off an exhilarating competition that gives local soccer fans the chance to drive away in a brand-new car while celebrating the world’s biggest sporting event.

From June 11 to July 19, 2026, local soccer lovers can sip, scan, and score big as the World Cup kicks off across 16 cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This historic edition will be the first to feature 48 teams and be jointly hosted by three nations.

How to Enter

  • Buy any 300ML Coca-Cola with a yellow cap.
  • Find the unique code under the cap.
  • Scan the QR code or send “COKE” via WhatsApp to 0783313439 and follow the prompts to enter.

Prizes Up for Grabs

Fans stand a chance to win a brand-new car and many other exciting prizes.

Delta Beverages captured the spirit of the campaign on social media:

“Every celebration, every victory, every unforgettable moment deserves a refreshing Coke. As the official FIFA World Cup, Coca-Cola is bringing fans closer to the action. Buy, enter, and stand a chance to win a car and many more prizes.”

This competition is more than just about winning—it’s about savoring every goal, every cheer, and every unforgettable World Cup moment with an ice-cold Coca-Cola in hand.

Will you be the lucky fan driving away with the grand prize? Grab your yellow-cap Coke today and join the celebration!

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Football

PSL Major Sponsor Worried About Match Violence

Harare – Castle Lager, the principal sponsor of the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League (PSL), has expressed grave concern over rising incidents of fan violence at local football matches that  could tarnish the image of the league and discourage potential sponsors.

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Harare – Castle Lager, the principal sponsor of the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League (PSL), has expressed grave concern over rising incidents of fan violence at local football matches that  could tarnish the image of the league and discourage potential sponsors.

The sponsor’s press statement follows violent clashes on Sunday at Chahwanda Stadium during a league fixture between Hardrock and Dynamos. The match, which ended prematurely, saw an estimated 10 people injured and taken to hospital after chaos erupted in the second half.

Trouble began in the 67th minute when Hardrock were awarded a penalty, converted by Wilfred Madzungu to level the score at 1–1. Tensions flared immediately after the equaliser, with rival fans storming the pitch and disrupting play. Players and technical staff from both sides were escorted off the field as police and security personnel struggled to contain the unrest. 

Hardrock fans beat up a Dynamos supporter
Hardrock fans beat up a Dynamos supporter at Chahwanda Stadium on Sunday

This is not an isolated incident; it is the second time the Kwekwe-based side has been involved in a crowd disturbance. On Sunday, 19 April 2026, a video circulated on social media allegedly showing Hardrock FC marshals and supporters involved in crowd trouble during the match between Hardrock FC and Ngezi Platinum Stars. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has since launched an investigation into the disturbances, and a ruling is yet to be issued.v

In its press release, Castle Lager condemned the violence, citing that it does not represent its values. 

“Football has long held a unifying role in Zimbabwean society—bringing together

communities, families, and supporters in a shared celebration of passion, talent, and national pride. Recent events, however, fall short of the spirit of the game and the values we collectively stand for.”

Castle Lager further urged the PSL leadership, clubs, and relevant authorities to act decisively and transparently in investigating the disturbances and implementing disciplinary measures. The sponsor warned that continued violence could erode confidence in the league and jeopardise future investment in Zimbabwean football.

“As a longstanding partner of the PSL, Castle Lager strongly condemn all forms of violence and unsportsmanlike behaviour, both on and off the field. The safety of fans, players, match officials and all stakeholders remains paramount,” the statement read.

The sponsor reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth and integrity of the PSL but stressed that the game must be played in an environment that reflects safety, respect, fairness, and unity. Castle Lager also wished those injured a speedy recovery and appealed to fans to reject violence and support their teams responsibly.

“We urge all involved to act decisively and transparently to restore confidence in the game.

As sponsors, we are actively engaging with the PSL leadership on these matters and await the

outcomes of the ongoing investigations into these events. This is to help us understand the

root causes behind these disruptions and support practical, long-term solutions that reinforce a safe and enjoyable football environment…We believe the game must be played, and experienced, in a manner that reflects safety, respect, fairness and unity.”

The incident has reignited debate over stadium security and fan conduct, with analysts advocating for decisive action to be taken against the perpetrators of such unsportsmanlike behavior. 

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