Mighty Warriors Begin AFCON 2026 Qualifiers Camp
Written by Skyz Metro FM on February 5, 2025
5 February 2025
By Makhosethu Ndlovu
The Mighty Warriors have begun preparations for their AFCON 2026 qualifiers against Angola, with the first leg set for February 20 in Luanda and the return fixture on February 27 in Pretoria.
Head coach Sithethelelwe “Kwinji 15” Sibanda expressed confidence in the squad, stating that the two-week training camp is sufficient for preparations. She confirmed that all locally based players are already in camp.
“I believe a two-week period is sufficient. When the fixtures were announced nearly two weeks ago, I immediately consulted with club coaches to identify the players we wanted to feature in this camp. We also conducted off-season activation exercises to ensure that we’re not starting from scratch when we begin playing games. I’m confident that these two weeks will be beneficial for us,” Sibanda stated.
“I urge the team to give it their all. Qualification is our ultimate goal, and it all begins with this crucial match against Angola. If we succeed in this first encounter, we will know that the off season is behind us, and our players will be gearing up for their club commitments. By the next round of qualification, they will be sharper and more match fit, as the season will be in full swing,” she added.
Captain Nobukhosi Ncube emphasized the team’s determination to qualify for AFCON 2026, following in the footsteps of the men’s team.
“Our goal is clear; we want to beat Angola, advance to the next round, and ultimately qualify for the AFCON. We drew inspiration from the Warriors’ team, who successfully qualified for the AFCON. We aspire to replicate their achievement and enjoy the same benefits they received. Their impressive performance made the entire nation proud, and we are eager to follow in their footsteps, bringing joy and pride to our country,” Ncube said.
Morocco, as hosts, have qualified automatically, while top-ranked teams like South Africa, Cameroon, Zambia, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Nigeria have received first-round byes. The remaining teams will compete for 12 available spots.