Foreign-based players in the Warriors squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will report for camp only six days before the tournament kicks off in Morocco on 21 December.
The delay comes after FIFA informed clubs that they may release players as late as 15 December.
ZIFA confirmed FIFA’s directive in a statement, which read:
“CAF and FIFA have jointly revised the mandatory player-release date for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, confirming that all clubs must release their players on or before 15 December 2025. This represents a shift from the previously agreed 8 December release date and has important implications for all participating nations as they prepare for the tournament in Morocco.
“For Zimbabwe, the adjustment delivers a significant logistical and technical setback. ZIFA had planned a high-level pre-tournament camp near Morocco to assemble the entire Warriors squad, including the foreign-based group, on time. This early gathering was central to the technical team’s strategy, ensuring the squad benefited from essential tactical work, conditioning sessions, and early acclimatisation in the North African environment.”
ZIFA added that with foreign-based players now only guaranteed for release from 15 December, the original preparation model can no longer be implemented.
The association continued: “The delayed availability of key players compresses Zimbabwe’s build-up window and disrupts the intended sequencing of training, friendly matches, and travel arrangements. As a result, the Warriors’ pre-AFCON structure must now be recalibrated under tighter timelines…
“Despite this disruption, ZIFA remains focused and adaptive. The Association is actively reviewing the preparation framework to ensure the Warriors maintain a competitive trajectory heading into AFCON 2025. Further updates will be communicated once the revised training and travel arrangements are finalised.”
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