Nakamba sends message to fans ahead of Equatorial Guinea clash

Zimbabwe captain Marvellous Nakamba has challenged supporters to turn the National Sports Stadium into a fortress on Monday.

The Warriors host Equatorial Guinea in a crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Harare.

With more supporters now allowed into the stadium, Nakamba wants the nation behind the team.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently relaxed restrictions on attendance at Zimbabwe’s home matches.

The decision allows up to 25,000 supporters to attend international fixtures at the National Sports Stadium.

Previously, CAF imposed restrictions following a supporter’s death during Zimbabwe’s home match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Now, the Warriors captain hopes supporters will take advantage of the increased capacity.

Nakamba believes home support could give Zimbabwe a significant advantage against their opponents.

He insists the players perform differently when thousands of supporters rally behind them.

“I want to urge the fans to come in numbers,” said Nakamba.

“Come and support us. Come and fill the National Sports Stadium. Come and make noise for us. We need you.

“When we play at home, with our fans behind us, we are a different team. We feel the energy. We feel the love. We feel the support. That pushes us.

“On Monday, we want the stadium to be full. We want the stadium to be loud.

The Aston Villa midfielder also emphasised the importance of representing the country.

He called on supporters to stand alongside the players as they pursue an important result.

“We are fighting for Zimbabwe. We are fighting for the country. We are fighting for the flag. Come and fight with us.

“On Monday, we will fight. We will fight for every ball. We will fight for every point.”

Meanwhile, supporters planning to attend can purchase standard tickets for US$20.

VIP tickets will cost US$100 for the encounter against Equatorial Guinea.