Warriors Midfielder Tawanda Chirewa Remains Optimistic Despite AFCON Exit

Zimbabwe's Tawanda Chirewa remains positive about the team's future despite their disappointing exit from the 2025 AFCON tournament. The Warriors finished bottom of Group B with a single point, failing to qualify for the knockout stages for the sixth time. Chirewa, who played cameo roles in all three matches, believes the current squad has the hunger and potential to succeed.

"The new crop of Warriors is hungry to break the jinx," he said. "We didn’t get the result we wanted, but we’ll learn from this and come back stronger." Chirewa was introduced as a substitute in all three matches by head coach Mario Marinica, against Egypt, South Africa, and Angola.

Despite the setback, Chirewa remains optimistic about the squad's direction. "We gave it our all, but it wasn’t our day. We will regroup and focus on the next challenge. We need to keep our heads high. We have brilliant players in our midst and that gives us another chance to work and achieve."

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The Warriors left Marrakech for Casablanca to connect their flight back home. For Chirewa, the tournament marked his first major AFCON experience, which he described as a crucial learning curve. "It’s a proud moment to represent the country, play for the badge with all you have and try to get results," he said.

Chirewa also praised the fans for their unwavering support. "The support from the fans was exceptional. The way they rallied behind the team, you can’t ask for more." He will return to the United Kingdom to rejoin his club Wolverhampton Wanderers, who are currently struggling in the English Premier League .