Why Wolves star is hurt after being denied AFCON chance by Bafana Bafana opponent

Zimbabwe assistant captain and Wolverhampton midfielder Marshall Munetsi is among those who will not be dining with the big boys at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The 29-year-old played a crucial role in helping the Warriors to qualify for the biennial competition. However, he, alongside former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Khama Billiat, were excluded from the squad that will do the job for the country in Morocco. The team is placed in Group B alongside Egypt, Angola and South Africa.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) stated Billiat asked to be excused for personal reasons while Wolves stated Munetsi was unfit after sustaining an injury.

Munetsi refutes injury claims

In his post on Facebook, Munetsi has stated he is not badly off, and in the next couple of days he will be fit enough to represent the nation.

“This one hurts, as representing the Warriors has always been a dream, and wearing our colours is the greatest honour of my career,” he posted.

“AFCON would have been even more significant. I had an injury recently, but my club, Wolves, communicated with the association that I was recovering well and even offered medical support to ensure that I could participate in the AFCON.

“Unfortunately, I received no follow‑up communication, and decisions were made without clarity—speculation, which wasn’t the case.

“While I’m hurt, my unwavering support for the national team remains strong. I respect the coach’s decisions and stand behind the boys wholeheartedly. I will always be ready to defend the nation I love,” Munetsi concluded.

Zimbabwe squad for AFCON

Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi FC), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC).

Defenders: Godknows Murwira (Scottland FC), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos FC), Sea Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday FC), Munashe Garanaga (FC Copenhagen), Gerald Takwara (Al Ittihad Misurata SC Libya), Isheanesu Mauchi ( Simba Bhora FC), Brandon Galloway (Plymouth Argyle FC), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Alec Mudimu (Flint Town United), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns).

Midfielders: Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town FC), Jonah Fabisch (FC Erzgebirg Aue), Andrew Rinomhota (Reading FC), Prosper Padera (SJK Seina Joki), Tawanda Chirewa (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC), Knowledge Musona (Scottland FC).

Forwards: Bill Antonio (KV Mechelen FC), Ishamael Wadi (CAPS United FC), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell FC), Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants), Prince Dube (Young Africans FC), Washington Navaya (TelOne FC), Macauley Bonne (Maldon & Tiptree FC), Junior Zindoga (TS Galaxy), Tadiwanashe Chakuchichi (Scottland FC).