Zimbabwe’s head coach, Michael Nees, has hailed Nigeria and Egypt as the most dangerous attacking teams in Africa, following his team’s challenging campaign in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, the German tactician admitted that his side faces a tough task after being drawn in a group alongside Egypt, South Africa, and Angola.

“We are in a very difficult group,” Nees said. “We have South Africa, very strong — we saw that last Friday when we managed to hold them. Egypt, with Nigeria, are the best attacking teams in Africa. Angola is also a very dangerous team.”

Zimbabwe endured a difficult World Cup qualifying series, finishing bottom of Group C which included Nigeria, South Africa, Benin Republic, Lesotho, and Rwanda. Despite several hard-fought draws, the Warriors were unable to secure a win.

While South Africa clinched the group’s automatic World Cup ticket, Nigeria booked a spot in the playoffs.

Now shifting focus to the AFCON, Nees expressed confidence that his team will fight to make an impact in Morocco.

“Every team that plays at the AFCON wants to reach the second round. No one goes there to just play three games and go home,” he said.

Zimbabwe will be hoping to overcome their World Cup setback and prove their worth when Africa’s biggest football tournament kicks off next year.