Aaron Ngwenya earns Warriors call-up as Ramon Catala names final AFCON squad

Highlanders goalkeeper Aaron Ngwenya has secured a place in Zimbabwe’s final Warriors squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.

Head coach Ramon Catala has selected the Bosso goalkeeper in his 24-man squad for two crucial encounters against Equatorial Guinea.

Ngwenya joins Martin Mapisa, Future Sibanda and Nelson Chadya in the goalkeeping department.

However, his selection comes at the expense of Elvis Chipezeze, who has fallen out of favour.

The South Africa-based goalkeeper misses out following a disappointing run of performances.

Premier Soccer League champions Scottland lead the club representation with six players in Catala’s final selection.

Goalkeeper Nelson Chadya headlines their contingent alongside defenders Kelvin Moyo, Emmanuel Jalai and Peter Muduhwa.

Meanwhile, midfielders Abubakar Moffat and Mthokozisi Msebe complete Scottland’s strong representation.

Hardrock also have two players featuring in the squad.

Left-back Tinotenda Muringai has earned selection alongside goalkeeper Martin Mapisa.

Catala has also maintained his faith in South Africa-based striker Thando Ngwenya.

The AmaZulu forward has impressed this season, finding the net nine times in the Betway Premiership.

Former Warriors striker Tino Kadewere has earned another opportunity to represent Zimbabwe.

However, Prince Dube and Washington Navaya have failed to secure places in the final squad.

Navaya’s omission is particularly notable given his impressive scoring record.

The Hardrock forward currently leads the domestic Premier Soccer League scoring charts with 17 goals.

Zimbabwe now turn their attention towards two important meetings against Equatorial Guinea.

The Warriors will travel to Cameroon for the first encounter on November 12.

They will then welcome the same opponents to the National Sports Stadium on November 16.

Both matches carry significant importance as Zimbabwe pursue qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.