The Zimbabwean government’s announcement of a US$150,000 (R2 732 385) winning bonus for each of the Warriors’ upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers has triggered frustration among Zimbabwean football fans, who are tired of using South African stadiums as ‘home grounds’.
Zimbabwean Government Offers bonuses
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has offered US$150,000 (R2 732 385) per victory against Benin and Nigeria. The total bonus of US$300,000 (R5 464 770) has raised concerns that the focus should instead be on long-term investments in football infrastructure.
This incentive aims to boost the team’s performance. However, many see the gesture as a short-term solution, while the underlying issue—the lack of proper football stadiums—remains unresolved. Many supporters are tired of seeing the Warriors play their “home” games in South African stadiums.
Fan Reactions: A Call for Stadiums Over Bonuses
This debate has sparked heated discussions among Zimbabwean football fans. Many believe the government should prioritise infrastructure over bonuses to secure the future of football. Responding to the government’s commitment, the fans took to social media to vent their frustrations.
@Panashe Matsikire: “Why doesn’t he support you in building stadiums , using money for wrong things. That amount is so enough for Estadio De Rufaro to meet minimum Caf standards”
@Isheanesu Ziyambi: “Dear Emerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa , do you know why are we playing our home matches next door? Obviously yes ,can you please use that so called “presidential support” to fix our home stadiums ,please please we’re being mocked by our regional rivals for not having a single stadium. Please use that money to fix at least 1 zvaro“
@Jacky Mazuva: “Much appreciated Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwaa. This is a good motivation for our players. I pleed with you Mr President to fastforward the renovation of the National Sports Stadium so that our boys will play their home matches here in Zimbabwe“
A Growing Concern: The Use of South African Stadiums
The issue of using South African stadiums for Zimbabwe’s “home” fixtures has been a source of dissatisfaction for many fans, who see it as a blow to national pride. Football fans have long expected Zimbabwe, with its rich footballing history, to host international matches on home soil.
The National Sports Stadium in Harare was once a beacon of pride. However, years of neglect and poor maintenance have severely deteriorated its facilities. The stadium, along with Barbourfields in Bulawayo, has failed to meet the required standards for international matches. As a result, the Warriors have been forced to play their home games in neighboring South Africa.
The Warriors now play in South Africa at venues like FNB Stadium and Moses Mabhida Stadium due to infrastructure challenges.
Zimbabwe faces Benin in a 2026 World Cup qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 20 March.
How do you feel about Zimbabwe using South African stadiums as their home grounds?
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