‘1000% fit’: Walter Musona rejects ZIFA’s AFCON fitness tests

Zimbabwe Warriors forward Walter Musona has become a genuine game changer for the national team. In recent years, his pace and direct running have unsettled hardened African defences.

Moreover, his set pieces and long range efforts have delivered crucial goals in tight qualifiers. Coaches have frequently trusted him in high pressure fixtures because he rarely hides. When fully fit, Musona stretches the pitch and creates space for creative midfielders.

Consequently, the Warriors often look more dangerous whenever he starts or enters from the bench. Fans therefore associate his presence with belief, intensity and attacking intent in big matches. That history of impact fuels the current debate surrounding his controversial AFCON omission.

Walter Musona AFCON fitness — Walter Musona

Walter Musona rejects ZIFA’s AFCON fitness tests

However, Musona’s AFCON dream has hit turbulence after a public row over his fitness. ZIFA announced that the Scottland FC captain suffered a hamstring injury against Algeria in Saudi Arabia. They further claimed he skipped training before facing Qatar because he still felt pain.

Additionally, the association said he was instructed to bring an ultrasound report before camp. When Musona allegedly failed to submit it, ZIFA then ordered an MRI scan instead. After being dropped, the winger responded defiantly on Facebook, writing he is “1000% fit.” His bold declaration directly challenges the medical and technical judgment of the national association. As screenshots spread, fans quickly took sides, questioning transparency around injury assessments.

Consequently, the issue risks creating divisions within the squad during crucial AFCON preparations. Instead of rallying around shared ambition, players now navigate rumours, mistrust and public speculation.

Fans react

After Walter Musona declared his fitness despite failing ZIFA’s AFCON tests, he divided fans.

@Emmanuel Chizivano “Kkkk 1000% but not in the camp . tough luck bro”

@Norman Chanaka “Agreed but not necessary bro. Use other channels to voice your disagreement with the coach. Its a war you won’t win using social media”

@Calvin Chicos “No one is bigger than the nation if these lads don’t change their behavior many of them won’t make it to Morocco..Coach akauya kuzoita basa not hide & seek of Michael Nees..”

@Jimmy James “The results are needed to confirm you are % fully fit & strong. It’s simple and straightforward ”