Nigeria vs Zimbabwe: Coach Nees stands firm on Arubi as No.1, snubs in-form Chipezeze

Zimbabwe head coach Michael Nees has reaffirmed his commitment to Washington Arubi as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper, shutting the door on the in-form Elvis Chipezeze despite his outstanding performances for Magesi FC, Footynaija.com reports.

Chipezeze has been in scintillating form, winning four consecutive Man of the Match awards in the Carling Knockout Cup in South Africa.

However, as Zimbabwe prepare for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers—hosting Benin in South Africa before facing Nigeria on March 25—Nees made it clear that Arubi remains his undisputed No.1.

Michael Nees is the new Zimbabwe national football team coach. The German, 57, has coached Seychelles and Rwanda, has been director of coaching with South Africa, and was on England’s support staff at 2006 World Cup. Says he will transform the Warriors in a short space of time. pic.twitter.com/oePZK6Fe94

— Steve Vickers (@SteveVickers5) July 30, 2024

Speaking after naming his 23-man squad, Nees emphasized Arubi’s pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification, highlighting his experience and leadership as key factors in the decision.

“Washington Arubi and Khama Billiat, I brought back into this team because I thought something was lacking, they exceeded our expectations. They helped us to qualify for the AFCON. They were instrumental together with all the other players. So, Washington is my number one,” Nees explained.

The German tactician also dismissed the idea of intense competition between goalkeepers, arguing that it could create unnecessary instability within the squad.

“I don’t want two alpha animals as number one A or number one B. On the goalkeeper, sometimes too much competition cannot be good. If something happens to Washington, we are ready to act. But Washington deserves the respect for helping us qualify,” he added.

Nees further underlined the importance of loyalty in his squad selection, stating that Arubi’s past contributions earned him the right to keep his place.

“And if another goalkeeper would have been chosen instead of Washington at that time, and he would have helped us to qualify, he would also deserve respect. For me, loyalty is also something very important.”

Despite the clarity on his goalkeeping choice, Nees knows Zimbabwe must shift their focus to securing vital points in their World Cup campaign. The Warriors currently sit at the bottom of their group with just two points, five adrift of the leaders, making their fixtures against Benin and Nigeria crucial for their qualification hopes.