AFCON 2025: Bafana Bafana Group B rivals explain star player snub and confirms new vice captain

Marumo Gallants goalkeeper Washington Arubi has been entrusted with a key leadership role as Zimbabwe intensifies preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Just days before the continental showpiece kicks off, the Warriors are finalising their plans for a challenging Group B campaign, where they will face Egypt, Angola, and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.

Zimbabwe opens its AFCON journey against Egypt on 22 December in Agadir, followed by Angola on 26 December, before concluding the group stage against Bafana Bafana on 29 December.

Arubi Named Vice-Captain

The 40-year-old shot-stopper has been appointed vice-captain, stepping in for Marshall Munetsi, who misses the tournament due to injury. Arubi joins captain Marvellous Nakamba and second vice-captain Godknows Murwira in leading the squad.

Arubi’s experience will be vital as Zimbabwe aims to progress beyond the group stage. The veteran goalkeeper featured in every match during the Warriors’ qualification campaign and remains the team’s first-choice keeper, supported by Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi FC) and Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC).

ZIFA Clarifies Munetsi’s Absence

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) issued a statement explaining Munetsi’s omission, following the player’s public disappointment on social media.

“ZIFA places on record its deep appreciation for Mr Marshall Munetsi, whose professionalism, leadership and exemplary service to the Warriors over many years are held in the highest regard,” the statement read.
“His non-selection was purely medical, procedural and regulatory, guided by player-welfare imperatives, CAF competition rules and the FIFA Club Protection Programme, without malice or bias.”

ZIFA reaffirmed Munetsi’s importance to the national team and expressed hope for his return once fully fit.