CAF Listing Was An Error: National Sports Stadium Still Banned

National Sports Stadium Listing Was An Error: Venue Still Not Approved

Zimbabwe’s hopes of hosting international football matches at the National Sports Stadium (NSS) were briefly raised—and then dashed—after a premature listing by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) suggested the venue had been cleared. The error has since been corrected, confirming that the stadium remains banned for international fixtures.

False Hope Sparks Confusion

A Caf statement on 11 August 2025 mistakenly included the NSS on its list of approved venues for under-17 to under-23 matches. While this sparked excitement among fans, officials quickly clarified that the listing was incorrect.

“As it stands, the National Sports Stadium is undergoing renovations and chances are it will only be cleared by end of year, but more certainly next year. That is what is practical at the moment and it is known. This was just an oversight,” a Caf insider told The Chronicle.

Despite the error, Caf remains optimistic about the progress of renovations, which have received significant government funding.

Continental Matches Still Played Abroad

With no Caf-certified stadium in Zimbabwe, the Warriors and local clubs must continue hosting matches outside the country. Zimbabwe’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in September will take place at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg. Simba Bhora, Zimbabwe’s sole representatives in the Caf Champions League, will also play both legs of their preliminary round tie against Eswatini’s Nsingizi Hotspurs on neutral ground.

Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi acknowledged the financial strain but praised Caf’s support:

“What is important is that there is a lot of goodwill from Caf. That is very important for us, and we are grateful for the efforts being put by the ministry and contractors on the ground.”

Renovations Underway as Caf Visit Looms

A Caf delegation is expected in September to assess ongoing upgrades, including bucket seat installations, pitch improvements, and drainage work. Magwizi remains hopeful but realistic:

“We are keeping Caf updated on all the developments. The positive development is that we are expecting Caf delegation next month to assess the facility.”

Meanwhile, Simba Bhora coach Joel Luphaphla is focused on their continental campaign:

“The league and Champions League demand our full throttle. Facing a Southern African side levels the playing style… We are a team from Shamva and already living our dream.”

With no quick fix in sight, Zimbabwean football fans must wait a little longer before seeing their teams play at home.