Zimbabwe urged to keep Warriors at home after CAF stadium approval

Zimbabwe’s Warriors have been urged to remain in Harare for their international fixtures after the National Sports Stadium received approval from CAF. The venue has been awarded Category 3 status, allowing it to host AFCON and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, along with some CAF club matches.

The approval ends a period in which Zimbabwe’s national team had to stage its home games outside the country because no local stadium met CAF requirements. Returning to the National Sports Stadium gives the Warriors the chance to play before supporters in Harare instead of operating from venues abroad.

That change restores a key benefit of international football. Zimbabwean fans will no longer need to cross borders, pay for travel and accommodation, or watch supposed home matches in stadiums where most of the crowd is from another country. Support in Harare can also provide the team with a psychological lift as it continues its AFCON campaign.

The stadium’s return to the international calendar could have an effect beyond the pitch. Matchdays are expected to create business for transport providers, food sellers, shops, hotels and other service operators, while the venue can again serve as a meeting place for Zimbabwean supporters.

The new status must, however, be treated as a responsibility rather than a final solution. The standards that secured CAF approval will require sustained attention, including routine inspections, cleaning, working facilities, dependable security and further investment. A fresh decline in conditions could once again force the Warriors to play their home fixtures outside Zimbabwe.

Supporters also have a part to play in protecting the home venue. Respect for officials, visiting teams and fellow fans will be important as international football returns to Harare. The approval has brought the Warriors back, but maintaining that position will depend on continued care of the stadium and responsible conduct around matches.