Catala Urges Zimbabwe Warriors to Improve Midfield Control Ahead of Equatorial Guinea Clash

The result in Yaoundé, Cameroon, earned Zimbabwe a point and kept them second in Group E of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Warriors are level on four points with Equatorial Guinea but occupy the higher position because of a superior goal difference.

DR Congo currently lead the group after defeating Sierra Leone 3-1, maintaining their unbeaten record and opening a three-point gap at the top of the standings.

Speaking after Thursday's encounter, Catala acknowledged that Equatorial Guinea had played well but insisted that his team needed to improve certain aspects of their performance.

He said Zimbabwe would have to exercise greater control in midfield when the teams meet again, particularly if they are to take advantage of playing at home.

Goalkeeper Nelson Chadya played a crucial role in securing the draw, producing several important saves as Equatorial Guinea increased their attacking pressure, especially during the second half.

The Warriors struggled to maintain possession after the interval, prompting Catala to make tactical adjustments. Tawanda Chirewa was withdrawn and replaced by Emmanuel Jalai, while Andy Rinomhota was moved into midfield in an attempt to improve the team's control of the game.

Zimbabwe also had to remain alert during the closing stages, with Marshal Munetsi making a vital clearance shortly before full-time to prevent Equatorial Guinea from scoring what appeared to be a certain goal.

The match had started cautiously, although Equatorial Guinea created the first clear scoring opportunity. Zimbabwe attempted to disrupt their opponents by pressing high up the pitch, while defenders Corbin Mthunzi and Kevin Moyo worked to contain dangerous counter-attacks.

Chirewa also came close to breaking the deadlock after making an attacking run from the right flank, but his effort narrowly missed the target.

At the other end, Chadya was repeatedly called upon as the hosts increased their attacking threat.

The goalless result has left the qualification race in Group E finely balanced. Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea remain tied on four points, while DR Congo have moved ahead with seven points following their victory over Sierra Leone, who are still without a point after three matches.

Zimbabwe will now turn their attention to Monday's return fixture against Equatorial Guinea at the National Sports Stadium in Harare.

Catala's men will be hoping to combine the defensive discipline they demonstrated in Cameroon with improved possession and attacking creativity to secure a crucial home victory and strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Source: Nehanda Radio