Businessman Wicknell Chivayo has honoured his pledge to settle Highlanders’ debt to former coach Baltemar Brito and his assistant Antonio Joao Torres.
Highlanders faced sanctions from the FIFA Disciplinary Committee last week after failing to pay a balance of over US$26,000.
As of October 17, 2024, the club owed Brito US$14,778, along with US$237.71 in interest, and Torres was owed US$11,788, with US$193.74 in interest.
In a statement released by Highlanders on Wednesday, 12 February, the club confirmed that Chivayo had fully settled the outstanding debts as promised. The club said:
<blockquote>
Highlanders Football Club would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to Mr. Wicknell Chivayo for his generous gesture in settling the outstanding debts of our two coaches in full, as promised.
Sir Wicknell has always been a big supporter of ithimu yezwe lonke, and since 2017, he has given the club tangible support.
As we prepare to celebrate our 100-year milestone, Bosso is assured of his continued kindness to this great institution.
Once again, we express our deepest appreciation: Siyabonga, Tatenda, Taboka.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

Wicknell Chivayo paid off the debt Highlanders owed to their former coaches. The debt was over US$26,000. The club owed Baltemar Brito and Antonio Joao Torres money, with interest added. Chivayo promised to settle the debt, and he did so. Highlanders thanked him for his generosity and support. They are grateful for his help and look forward to his continued support.

Chivayo Pays Off Highlanders’ Debt To Former Coaches

Wicknell Chivayo has stepped in to help Highlanders FC pay the outstanding salaries owed to their former coach, Baltemar Brito, and his assistant, Antonio Joao Torres.
Reports say that Highlanders owes Brito US$14,778, plus US$237.71 in interest as of October 17, 2024, and owes Torres US$11,788, with US$193.74 in interest on the same date.
The two Brazilian coaches reported the club to FIFA, which responded by banning Highlanders from signing new players until the debt is paid in full.
FIFA also warned that the debt will keep accumulating interest at a rate of 5% per year until it’s settled.
This issue has been going on since last year after the coaches couldn’t resolve the matter with the club.
Highlanders had hoped to strengthen their team after losing key players, but the ban has made it harder.
Now, Chivayo has offered to help by paying off the debt “tomorrow without fail,” offering a way out for Highlanders. Chivayo wrote on X:
<blockquote>
Bosso ngenkani! Iteam yezwe lonke. Babethi ayibulawe, ayisoze ibulawe sikhona. I will gladly pay this outstanding debt directly to the former coach tomorrow without fail. Someone please inbox and share the banking details with exact amount due asap…
</blockquote>
Chivayo, a former convict and controversial businessman, has been involved in several scandals and corruption cases recently, but he has not been arrested.
Chivayo is closely connected to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and leaked audio surfaced last year where Chivayo claimed that the President follows his instructions, saying, “ndakachibata kuti dzvii” (meaning he influences the President).
Through Chivayo, ZANU PF political leaders have been giving cars and cash to celebrities in Zimbabwe.
Chivayo himself has openly said that these gifts come from ZANU PF, and the recipients should be aware of that.

Wicknell Chivayo is offering to help pay Highlanders FC's debt to their former coaches, Brito and Torres. The club owes them a lot of money, and FIFA banned Highlanders from signing new players until the debt is paid. Chivayo is a controversial businessman with connections to the President of Zimbabwe. He has been involved in scandals, but he has not been arrested. Chivayo has offered to pay off the debt to help the team. Highlanders are struggling because of the ban, and Chivayo's offer could help them move forward.

Chivayo Offers To Pay Highlanders' Debt To Brito And Torres

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has banned Highlanders FC from signing new players both internationally and domestically due to the club’s failure to pay former coach Baltemar Brito his outstanding salaries.
According to <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/fifa-ban-bosso-bulawayo-giants-sanctioned-for-not-paying-brito">Zimpapers Sports Hub</a>, Highlanders owes Brito a total of US$14,778, with an additional US$237.71 in interest as of October 17, 2024.
The club also owes his assistant, Antonio Joao Torres, US$11,788 plus $193.74 in interest, as of the same date.
FIFA has stipulated that the debts will continue to accrue interest at a rate of 5 per cent per annum until the payments are settled.
The dispute has been ongoing since last year after the coaches’ efforts to resolve the issue with Highlanders were unsuccessful.
Following this, the matter was taken to FIFA. The club was given a 45-day deadline to settle the debts, but they failed to meet the deadline, leading to the ban.
Highlanders had been hoping to strengthen their squad after the departures of key players such as Lynoth Chikuhwa, Godfrey Makaruse, Peter Muduhwa, and Marvelous Chigumira.
FIFA formally communicated the ban to Highlanders in a letter from their disciplinary committee, with copies sent to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), ZIFA, and the coaches’ representatives.
On January 29, Americo Espallargas, FIFA’s head of disciplinary, urged ZIFA to enforce the ban, as Highlanders had still not made the required payments to Brito. Wrote Espallargas to Highlanders:
<blockquote>
We refer to the above-mentioned matter, as well as the decision passed by FIFA in the matter ref. no. FPSD-16612 (the Decision).
In this context, it appears that despite the decision, Highlanders FC (the respondent) has not yet complied with its financial obligations towards Baltemar Jose de Oliveira Brito.
In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally has been implemented by FIFA on the respondent.
The registration ban will remain active until the amount due is paid and for a maximum duration of up to three entire and consecutive registration periods.
Lastly, the Zimbabwe Football Association is requested to immediately implement on the respondent a ban from registering new players at national level, if not done yet. We thank you for your kind attention to the above and for your valuable cooperation.’
</blockquote>
Before taking the drastic step through their disciplinary committee, FIFA had issued a warning to Highlanders last year regarding the payment of their coaches. However, the club failed to take timely action to avoid the penalty.
On Saturday, Highlanders CEO Brian Moyo acknowledged the FIFA-imposed ban but said the club was making efforts to settle the debt before the domestic transfer window closes, ahead of the start of the 2025 Castle Lager Premiership season. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
Yes, it is true the club owes the foreign coaches. Efforts are underway to remedy the situation as soon as possible in time to not lose out on the transfer window.
We are working round the clock with our partners and in full consultation with the Reserve Bank in order to remain inside of funds transfer (regulations).
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, another local Premiership club, Yadah FC, is also under a FIFA-imposed ban from registering players for three transfer windows.
Yadah’s case also involves Brazilian nationals—Joao Pedro Marques Barcellos, Juan Luciano Faria, and Deivid Pereira de Brito.

FIFA has banned Highlanders FC from signing new players because they owe their former coaches over $26,000 in unpaid salaries. The club has not paid coach Baltemar Brito and his assistant, Antonio Joao Torres, for a long time. FIFA gave Highlanders a deadline to pay, but they missed it, leading to the ban. The club was warned before but did not act. The CEO of Highlanders is working to pay the debt before the new season starts. Another club, Yadah FC, is also banned by FIFA for not paying their coaches.

FIFA Bans Highlanders From Signing New Players, Club Owes Former Coaches Over US$26,000

Highlanders Football Club owes former coaches Baltemar Brito and Antonio Joao Martins Leao Torres thousands of dollars in unpaid signing fees, salaries, and bonuses from the 2023 season.
The club is now facing the risk of a potential transfer ban from FIFA, set to take effect on January 21, 2025.
Highlanders CEO, Brian Moyo, confirmed the issue to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/bosso-moves-in-to-avert-fifa-ban/">Chronicle</a>, saying the club is aware of the situation and plans to resolve it as soon as possible. Moyo said: Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
We are aware of the matter. There are already initiatives by the club to address the problem soonest. We want to save the situation and we have advised Fifa about our position, including the coaches themselves and their agent Gilbert Sengwe.
We have been talking to them and it is easier for our sponsor to deposit the debt into the coaches’ local foreign accounts they used last year.
But they have since closed them and they refuse for us to pay their agent here so that he can pay them.
We have even engaged the Reserve Bank who advised us what to do and we are happy with the advice.
Some of the money will be sent this week, and we hope our sponsors will assist with what is outstanding.
</blockquote>
Brito is reportedly owed approximately US$9,000 in unpaid salaries and signing bonuses, while Torres is seeking US$5,500. Both players are each owed US$11,000 in winning bonuses.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Highlanders Football Club owes former coaches Baltemar Brito and Antonio Joao Martins Leao Torres a lot of money from the 2023 season. They could get banned from FIFA on January 21, 2025, if they don't pay. The club's CEO, Brian Moyo, said they are working to fix the problem and have talked to the coaches and FIFA. Brito is owed about US$9,000 and Torres US$5,500 in salaries and bonuses. They each need US$11,000 in winning bonuses too. The club hopes to pay some money this week with the help of sponsors.

Highlanders Owes Former Coach Baltemar Brito US$20 000

Former Warriors coach Baltermar Brito says Yadah Stars Football Club owner, Walter Magaya, is the right man to be the next ZIFA president.
In 2023, Brito was the Highlanders coach when ZIFA appointed him as Warriors head coach, tasking him with leading the national team’s opening 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria, both of which ended in draws.
In a post on his official Facebook page, Brito said Magaya is the right man to spearhead the development of football in Zimbabwe as the president of ZIFA. He wrote:
<blockquote>
I’m doing this post because my feeling and nature is more stronger than anything else. I look to Zimbabwe as one of the countries with more football talent that I worked with during my career as a football coach, was one of the best surprises during my lifetime even because of how good I felt there.
As my second home country, I follow all news and movements related, since long time that I look for Prophet Magaya as one of the great minds and visionaries on Zimbabwe and because of it see him related with a position of ZIFA boss gives me hope that finally the football there can win another dimension. Let’s have a hope that ZIFA after the elections are in good hands.
</blockquote>
Brito has worked in different countries and for top European clubs, including Porto and Chelsea where he was Jose Mourinho’s assistant.
Former Highlanders and Warriors goalkeeper Tapuwa Kapini recently called on Magaya to avail himself for the ZIFA president post, saying “his love for the game is there for everyone to see with all the million-dollar investments he has made”.
Magaya has yet to publicly declare himself available for the ZIFA presidency, but it is thought that given his passion for soccer (he built a stadium in Waterfalls, Harare), the preacher is open to running for the post when the elections are eventually held.
Simba Bhora FC director Brighton “PanJap” Ushendibaba, former Premier Soccer League boss Twine Phiri, CAPS United legend Alois Bunjira, veteran broadcaster Charles Mabika and UK-based Marshal Gore are all rumoured to be eyeing the ZIFA president post when it becomes available.
It’s still not clear whether elections for the new ZIFA board will held this year, but the Normalisation Committee’s tenure ends on June 30, 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Warriors Coach, Baltemar Brito, Backs Magaya For ZIFA Presidency

Disagreements between the ZIFA Normalisation Committee and the FIFA head of development programmes for Africa, Solomon Mudege, resulted in the delay in the appointment of the coach of the national senior men’s football team, the Warriors, and hampered the return of Baltemar Brito, reported <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/story-behind-warriors-coaching-chaos">The Sunday Mail</a>.
Mudenge, working with FIFA Forward manager Kudzi Chitima and ZIFA chief executive officer Yvonne Mapika Manwa, had reportedly given Brito the job verbally.
They asked the Brazilian to select his players for the two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and South Africa on 7 and 11 June, respectively.
However, ZIFA Normalisation Committee chairperson Lincoln Mutasa and his executive allegedly refused to process Brito’s papers after he criticised how they handled the previous 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria in Butare, Rwanda, in November 2023.
The Sunday Mail reported sources as saying Mudege, Manwa and Chitima struggled to convince Mutasa and his executive to rehire Brito after he criticised ZIFA following the Warriors’ back-to-back draws against Rwanda and Nigeria. Said the source:
<blockquote>
There was a lot of optimism from FIFA’s Mudege and Chitima that the reappointment of Brito would sail through, hence he was tasked with selecting the players with the help of Chitima.
But when the matter was brought to the Normalisation Committee, they stood their ground and rejected Brito’s re-engagement as he had already fallen out with the committee after the Rwanda trip.
It was then that an initial decision to hire Joey Antipas was made, but the Chicken Inn coach does not have a CAF A Licence badge and when the Normalisation Committee put Lloyd Chitembwe’s name forward, it was rejected by the FIFA guys.
Chitembwe also has his challenges of being blacklisted from entering South Africa, so, in the end, a compromise was reached to settle for the three coaches who had been identified as Chitembwe’s assistants, who are Jairos, Chiragwi and Chaminuka.
Another long meeting was held by the Normalisation Committee to decide on the coaches to preside over the upcoming matches and during that meeting, the chairman, Mutasa, insisted that Mhofu (Sunday Chidzambwa) should be in the setup as technical adviser because he rates him highly.
</blockquote>
On Friday, Mutasa announced the appointment of Jairos Tapera as Warriors interim coach, with Takesure Chiragwi and Saul Chaminuka, as assistant coaches for the two World Cup qualifiers.
Former Warriors Head Coach, Sunday Chidzambga, was appointed the Warriors’ Technical Director.
Tapera became the fourth interim coach to take charge of the Warriors since the appointment of the ZIFA Normalisation Committee on 11 June 2023. The others are Sunday Chidzambwa, Brito and Norman Mapeza.
The Sunday Mail also heard that the ZIFA NC members are a divided lot but they have one thing in common: “They don’t like those who criticise them.” Said the source:
<blockquote>
Brito was dropped as a possible choice for the coaching for reasons aligned with criticism of the establishment as well.
But I can tell you that Brito was the favourite for the job and he was even seconded to pick the squad he wanted to work with. So, he, together with Kudzi Chitima, was responsible for selecting and inviting the players.
This interim technical team to lead the squad will have no say on which players to use since they have already been selected, especially for the World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and South Africa.
Maybe they will have a say, but not much, for the players they will use in the COSAFA tournament, which they will also take charge of.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Baltemar Brito Selected Warriors Squad For World Cup Qualifiers In June 2024"

Former Highlanders coach Baltemar Brito has reportedly applied for the vacant Zimbabwe senior men’s national football team’s coaching job.
The Brazilian was appointed Warriors caretaker coach last year and took charge of two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria in November.
Earlier this week, the ZIFA Normalisation Committee invited applications for the job for the second time. The successful candidate will be tasked with leading The Warriors, directing the programme, and preparing the teams for various tournaments.
These include the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the COSAFA tournaments.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200026461/brito-wants-warriors-job">NewsDay</a> reported a source within the leadership of local football as saying Brito had applied for the Warriors job. Said the source:
<blockquote>
He [Brito] applied. He wants to come back [to Zimbabwe]. I think he has more interest in Zimbabwe than the recent possibility of joining the Cameroon national team where he was invited for interviews. He has always had his mind on Zimbabwe to finish the job that he started.
</blockquote>
Brito, then Highlanders’ coach, was in September 2023 appointed as the Warriors’ interim coach and took charge of the Group C 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Rwanda in November where he picked up two points.
His contract with ZIFA ended on December 31 and the Association decided against granting him another deal.
FC Platinum coach Norman Mapeza was later appointed Warriors coach on an interim basis and led the national team at a four-nation tournament in Malawi in March this year.
Meanwhile, in the advert, ZIFA said the ideal candidate must have a CAF Pro Licence or CAF A Licence, a minimum of 5 years of international football experience at senior levels, and be proficient in the English language (verbal and written).
Candidates should also have extensive international football knowledge and experience, particularly at the senior national team level.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Baltemar Brito Applies For Warriors Job

Members of the ZIFA Normalisation Committee (NC) are reportedly divided on whether to renew Warriors coach Baltemar Brito’s contract or not.
<a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2023/12/30/zifa-nc-undecided-over-brito/">Soccer24</a> reported sources as saying some members of the ZIFA NC had a discussion on Brito’s future at the recently held African Schools Football Championship.
The discussion included FIFA Forward Manager Kudzai Chitima, who has reportedly been heavily involved in key decisions made by the committee. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Three members of the Normalisation Committee and Kudzai Chitima had a discussion concerning Brito’s future at the African Schools Football Championship at Gateway High School. Clearly, they were not in agreement in terms of renewing Brito’s contract.
I’m not sure why, but it’s not everyone amongst them who believes Brito should continue as the national team coach.
Some of them (members of the NC) are also against the idea of Antonio Torres (Brito’s assistant and translator at Bosso) being part of the Warriors technical team.
</blockquote>
The publication said they could not reach ZIFA NC chairman Lincoln Mutasa on his mobile phone for a comment.
Brito was appointed national team coach in September on a short-term deal that ran concurrently with his arrangement with Highlanders, due to work permit issues.
The Brazilian’s contract expires today, 31 December amid claims that some ZIFA NC members do not want him to continue as the Warriors coach.
Brito presided over two World Cup Qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria in November, picking up two points.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIFA Normalisation Committee Undecided Over Brito Warriors Future | Report

The ZIFA Normalisation Committee is reportedly set to offer Warriors coach Baltemar Brito a new contract, as his current deal runs out at the end of this month.
The Brazilian was appointed Warriors coach in September, with his right-hand man Antonio Torres appointed as the fitness and conditioning coach.
The two were, however, offered contracts which run concurrently with their deals at Highlanders Football Club, that is, 31 December 2023, when their work permits expire.
<a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2023/12/08/zifa-nc-to-offer-brito-new-contract/">Soccer24</a> reported a source as saying the Lincoln Mutasa-led ZIFA Normalisation Committee has already engaged the coaches for new contracts. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The NC has already engaged them (Brito and Torres) for contract extensions. They could not be offered contracts which run beyond 31 December because their work permits are also expiring on December 31, concurrently with their Highlanders contracts. But everything is fine, the duo will be retained for sure.
</blockquote>
Highlanders recently announced that Brito’s contract with them will not be renewed.
To date, Brito has been in charge of three Warriors matches, the first a friendly against Botswana in September, and then two World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria in November. All the matches ended in draws.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Brito Set To Be Offered Fresh Warriors Contract | Report

Warriors coach Baltemar Brito said he was happy with the players’ performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C qualifier against Nigeria on Sunday, 19 November, but was disappointed with the result.
Zimbabwe drew 1-1 against Nigeria in a match played at the Huye Stadium in Butare, Rwanda.
The Warriors created arguably the best chances in the match but failed to take maximum points after Walter Musona’s stunning free-kick in the first half was cancelled out by a Kelechi Iheanacho strike in the second half.
Teenage Hadebe, Devine Lunga and Tanaka Shandirwa then wasted great chances, leaving the Brazilian-born coach frustrated. Said Brito:
<blockquote>
I am happy but disappointed as well. It was a really good game of football by the players. They gave it their all and I think for all the effort they deserve to be praised.
I salute this group of players for their committed fight on the field. It was a close contest, but I think we fashioned out the best chances.
Nigeria were in our box very few times. I think we had a chance to win the game but credit to the players for the fight.
</blockquote>
The World Cup qualifiers resume next year and Zimbabwe will host Lesotho before travelling to South Africa for a date against Bafana Bafana. Both matches will be played between 3 and 11 June 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Brito Happy But Disappointed After Warriors Fail To Beat Nigeria

Warriors coach Baltemar Brito has named a starting eleven to face Rwanda in Zimbabwe’s first 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Huye Stadium this afternoon.
Four of the players in the starting XI ply their trade in the local premiership and the rest are based at foreign clubs on the African continent and further afield.
The match is set to kick off at 3 PM.
Below is the starting eleven
Donovan Benard, Andrew Mbeba, Teenage Hadebe, Gerald Takwara, Divine Lunga, Brian Banda, Marvellous Nakamba, Marshall Munetsi, Admiral Muskwe, Walter Musona, Prince Dube.
Bernard (Chicken Inn), Mbeba (Highlanders), Banda (FC Platinum) and Musona (FC Platinum) are the locally-based players.
The foreign-based players are Hadebe (Houston Dynamo), Takwara (Ohod), Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns), Nakamba (Luton Town), Munetsi (Stade de Reims), Muskwe (Exeter City), and Dube (Azam).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Brito Names Warriors Starting XI To Face Rwanda

The Warriors technical team has reportedly named Marvelous Nakamba, Marshall Munetsi and Teenage Hadebe as captains of the national team ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria.
<a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2023/11/14/warriors-captains-named/">Soccer24</a> reported well-placed sources privy to ongoings in the Warriors camp, as saying head coach Baltemar Brito and his team have selected Nakamba, Munetsi and Hadebe, to be captains.
While it is not clear who amongst the three will wear the armband against Rwanda today, previous reports have suggested that Nakamba will be the skipper.
Meanwhile, Munetsi, who plays for French Ligue 1 club Stade de Reims, said it’s imperative for the Warriors to take the game to the hosts so that Rwanda doesn’t get too comfortable because of home advantage. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s a tough one tomorrow, playing the hosts Rwanda but I’m sure everybody is prepared.
Rwanda is a team that we don’t really know much about so it’s up to us to make sure that we are on top of our game.
They (Rwanda) are playing at home so we have to start as strong as possible to make sure they don’t feel comfortable at home.
</blockquote>
The match kicks off at 3 PM at Huye Stadium. It will be available to watch live via <a href="https://www.plus.fifa.com/en/content/rwanda-v-zimbabwe-caf-qualifiers-first-round-group-c-fifa-world-cup-26tm-live-stream/9238be7d-6b87-41f7-9c95-6e8538d83587">a free stream feed on FIFA Plus.</a>
No registration is required.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Brito Selects Warriors Captains

Warriors coach Baltemar Brito is reportedly set to name Luton Town midfielder Marvelous Nakamba as the captain of the Zimbabwe senior men’s football team ahead of the Warriors’ back-to-back 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria this month.
Saudi Arabian-based forward Knowledge Musona captained the Warriors for several years before he announced his retirement from international football in May 2022.
While many football fans had expected France-based Marshall Munetsi to be handed the captaincy, it appears that Nakamba will inherit the armband from Musona.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200018978/brito-picks-new-warriors-captain">NewsDay</a> reported a source as saying that the 29-year-old Hwange-born midfielder will take over the Warriors armband “unless something dramatic happens”. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Unless something dramatic happens, it appears Brito wants Nakamba to be the new captain.
</blockquote>
Brito picked Nakamba to vote in the FIFA Ballon d’Or as the Zimbabwe captain representative two months ago, another indication that he will give the Warriors armband to the former Bantu Rovers player.
The FIFA Ballon d’Or award is voted for by national team coaches and their captains, and a selected group of journalists.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Nakamba To Be Named Warriors Captain | Report

Warriors coach Baltemar Brito said the 28 players named in the provisional Warriors squad for Zimbabwe’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers this month were selected because they have the “ability to face two challenges in a short space of time.”
There was an uproar in some sections of the fanbase after Brito and his technical team overlooked some experienced players and called up greenhorns from Europe.
The likes of Ronald Pfumbidzai, Knox Mutizwa, Devine Lunga and Kundai Benyu are not in the squad whereas some youngsters playing at English clubs’ development sides were called up.
Liverpool midfielder Isaac Mabaya and Leicester City striker Tawanda Maswanhise play for the development sides of their respective clubs but were named in the Warriors’ provisional squad to face Rwanda on 15 November, and Nigeria on 19 November.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/brito-defends-warriors-selection/">The Herald</a>, Brito said the technical team did not look at the status of the players. He added:
<blockquote>
We had this camping in Harare, where a number of players impressed and Tanaka (Shandirwa) is on the list, it was just an error by the media department.
For the other ones like Devine (Lunga), Knox (Mutizwa) and Ronald (Pfumbidzai) it was a technical decision after we realised the players that we have in the same positions, the competitiveness and the minutes they have had.
</blockquote>
The bulk of the players called up for the two matches are foreign-based, with the likes of Highlanders and Dynamos defenders, Peter Muduhwa and Frank Makarati, respectively, among the few local players in the provisional squad. Said Brito:
<blockquote>
We also analysed the European-based players that we have and also the magnitude of the task that we have, and the opponents that we will face, Rwanda and Nigeria.
We took the decision in the best interests of Zimbabwe knowing that in one of the assignments we will just have two days of training, the other one a really tough one.
So, the criteria was to balance the team with experience and youth and also take into consideration we have two games in four days.
So, we went for quality and the ability to face these two challenges in a short space of time.
We will try to choose the best eleven when the players come together. We know that some of the players will play on the weekend and have a big journey to Rwanda and they will be affected in terms of freshness.
These are some of the factors we also considered.
</blockquote>
Here is the provisional squad:
Goalkeepers
<ul>
<li>Donovan Bernard (Chicken Inn)</li>
<li>Washington Arubi (SuperSport United)</li>
<li>Martin Mapisa (FC Malaga City)</li>
<li>Marley Tavaziva (Brentford)</li>
</ul>
Defenders
<ul>
<li>Tendayi Darikwa (Apolon Limassol)</li>
<li>Andrew Mbeba (Highlanders)</li>
<li>Peter Muduhwa (Highlanders)</li>
<li>Frank Makarati (Dynamos)</li>
<li>Teenage Hadebe (Houston Dynamo)</li>
<li>Munashe Garan’anga (Sheriff Tiraspol)</li>
<li>Brendan Galloway (Plymouth Argyle)</li>
<li>Jordan Zemura (Udinese)</li>
<li>Tivonge Rushesha (Reading)</li>
</ul>
Midfielders
<ul>
<li>Brian Banda (FC Platinum)</li>
<li>Marshall Munetsi (Stade de Reims)</li>
<li>Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town)</li>
<li>Gerald Takwara (Ohod)</li>
<li>Isaac Mabaya (Liverpool)</li>
</ul>
Forwards
<ul>
<li>Obriel Chirinda (Bulawayo Chiefs)</li>
<li>Prince Dube (Azam)</li>
<li>Tinotenda Kadewere (Lyon)</li>
<li>Admiral Muskwe (Exeter City)</li>
<li>Walter Musona (FC Platinum)</li>
<li>Terrence Dzvukamanja (SuperSport United)</li>
<li>Leon Chiwome (Wolverhampton Wanderers)</li>
<li>Tawanda Masvanhise (Leicester City)</li>
</ul>
The Warriors are expected to get together on 13 November, just two days before playing Rwanda. Some of the European-based players are expected to fly directly to the central African country.
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Brito Explains Warriors Squad Selection

Highlanders coach Baltemar Brito has blamed his players for the 3-0 to Simba Bhora in a match played at Baobab Stadium on Saturday.
Highlanders, who at one point had opened a 7-point lead at the top of the PSL table, now trail log leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars by 6 points.
Speaking to the media after the match, Brito blamed his players for a “poor attitude’’ saying they failed to follow his instructions. He said:
<blockquote>
Sometimes it’s about the attitude of the players, and their mentality in the game.
You tell them what to do and they don’t do it and you end up losing.
But we keep believing, Ngezi lost against FC Platinum and we also lost. It’s a tough competition.
</blockquote>
Simba Bhora coach Tonderai Ndiraya, who has snatched four points from Highlanders during the current PSL 2023 season, said:
<blockquote>
I am very happy, and very excited after my boys put up one of their best performances of the season.
Obviously, because we beat a big team, Highlanders are a team with a huge history, so getting one over them makes us very happy.
We got four points from them this season and this is quite a remarkable achievement, especially in our quest to move away from the bottom.
</blockquote>
Simba Bhora are now five points clear of relegation with eight rounds of fixtures before the conclusion of the season.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Highlanders Coach Blames Players' "Poor Attitude" For Loss To Simba Bhora

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/21/baltemar-brito-appointed-warriors-coach-until-june-2024/">recently appointed Warriors technical team</a>, led by Baltemar Brito, has announced the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_National_Football_Team/">Warriors</a> squad consisting of local players that is set to take on Botswana in an invitational match at the end of this month. The team comprises talented players from various prominent teams in the current Zimbabwe premiership football competition, including Ngezi Platinum, Highlanders, Manica Diamonds, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Dynamos_Football_Club/">Dynamos</a>, and others.
Baltemar Brito, who currently serves as the coach for Highlanders FC, has been appointed as the interim Warriors coach until June 30 of next year. He will be assisted by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Bongani_Mafu/">Bongani Mafu</a> and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Genesis_Mangombe/">Genesis Mangombe</a> in his coaching role. He was appointed by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)/">ZIFA</a> Normalisation Committee to prepare the Zimbabwe senior men’s national football team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, commencing in November.
<h3>The squad</h3>
<h4>Goalkeepers</h4>
Donovan Bernard (Chicken Inn), Nelson Chadya (Ngezi Platinum Stars)
<h4>Defenders</h4>
Andrew Mbeba, Peter Muduhwa (Highlanders), Godknows Murwira (Caps United), Frank Makarati (Dynamos), Farai Banda (Manica Diamonds), Qadr Amini (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Xolani Ndlovu (Chicken Inn)
<h4>Midfielders</h4>
Brighton Manhire (Highlanders), Sherpard Mhlanga (Chicken Inn), Brian Banda (FC Platinum), Tanaka Shandirwa (Dynamos), Mthokozisi Msebe (Bulawayo Chiefs), Donald Mudadi (Dynamos), Davison Marowa (Herentals), Walter Musona (FC Platinum), Tinotenda Benza (Herentals)
<h4>Forwards</h4>
William Manondo (Caps United), Fortune Binzi (Manica Diamonds), Obriel Chirinda (Bulawayo Chiefs)
The upcoming friendly match scheduled for September 30 is a part of Botswana’s Independence Day festivities. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Baltemar Brito Has Announced The Warriors Squad To Play Botswana This Month

The ZIFA Normalisation Committee has appointed Baltemar José de Oliveira Brito as Warriors head coach until June 2024.
In a statement released on Thursday, 21 September, the ZIFA Normalisation Committee said Brito will be assisted by Bongani Mafu and Genesis Mangombe.
Mangombe is the Dynamos interim coach after taking over from the sacked Herbert Maruwa a few weeks ago while Mafu was suspended by struggling Hwange earlier this month after a string of poor results.
The ZIFA NC said the new coaches’ first assignment will be the invitational match to celebrate Botswana’s Independence Day on 30 September before leading the Warriors in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is pleased to inform the nation that it has appointed Baltemar Brito as the head coach of the senior men’s team forthwith until June 2024. He will be assisted by Bongani Mafu and Genesis Mangombe.
The Normalisation Committee (NC) settled for the trio after an extensive recruitment and consultative process based on regional, continental, and global confederations’ guidelines.
The NC set the coaches’ term of engagement to end at the same time as its mandate so that the next board will have the opportunity to recruit its own coaches.
Brito and his assistants’ first assignment will be the invitational match to celebrate Botswana’s Independence Day on 30 September.
Thereafter, they will have to begin working on creating a team to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November.
ZIFA would like to thank Highlanders FC and Dynamos for allowing their coaches to serve the nation.
The coaches will remain with their clubs and will be reporting for national assignments as and when required to do so.
The association pleads for the nation’s patience as it continues with the recruitment of remaining national teams coaches.
</blockquote>
 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Baltemar Brito Appointed Warriors Coach Until June 2024

Highlanders Football Club has reportedly given head coach Baltemar José de Oliveira Brito the greenlight to take up the offer from the ZIFA Normalisation Committee to become interim Warriors coach.
This comes after the chairman of the ZIFA Normalisation Committee, Lincoln Mutasa, wrote to Bosso seeking the club’s permission to approach the 71-year-old over the vacant Warriors post.
<a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2023/09/20/highlanders-approve-britos-warriors-appointment/">Soccer24</a> quoted an unnamed Highlanders official as saying the club has agreed to let Brito become the national team coach. Said the official:
<blockquote>
As the club leadership, we have agreed to let the coach (Brito) become the national team coach. We actually feel honoured by the recognition, in the sense that he will lead the revival of the senior men’s national team after the lifting of the FIFA suspension.
</blockquote>
Brito, a Brazilian, was famous Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho’s assistant at Chelsea (England) and Inter Milan (Italy).
He is set to be offered a contract that runs concurrently with the Normalisation Committee’s tenure which ends in mid-2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Highlanders Agree To Release Brito For Warriors Coaching Job

The ZIFA Normalisation Committee (ZIFA NC) has approached Highlanders Football Club, seeking permission to appoint their coach Brito Baltemar Jose Oliveira as the Warriors’ boss on an interim basis.
A letter dated 19 September 2023 and addressed to the Highlanders Chairman, by ZIFA NC Chairman Lincoln Mutasa confirms the interest in the Brazilian. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
The Normalization Committee would like to request your Executive permission to engage one of your employees in the name of Brito Baltemar Jose Oliveira for a possible appointment as the interim Senior Men National Teams Coach.
Whereas he has indicated he is in permanent employ of your esteemed organization.
It is in that light of integrity we hereby pray you shall find it beneficial to release him for envisaged national duty during this interim Normalization period.
</blockquote>
Brito, who arrived in the country last year, has been fairly successful at Highlanders, with the club in second position on the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League table.
Highlanders were also the only team that remained unbeaten during the first half of this campaign.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIFA Committee Wants Highlanders Gaffer As Warriors Coach

Highlanders coach Baltemar Brito has revealed that he is interested in the Warriors job after the FIFA Normalisation Committee led by Lincoln Mutasa recently released adverts for jobs for national teams.
The Brazilian said he has four months left on his contract with Highlanders and the two parties have not started negotiations for a contract renewal. Said Brito:
<blockquote>
As coaches, we have to think about our future so our manager applied for the Warriors job.
Highlanders is the biggest team in the country but the biggest job is coaching the national team.
We have four months left in our contract with Highlanders, we don’t know if they will renew our contract so we have to think about our future.
</blockquote>
Highlanders are at the apex of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League with a five-point lead ahead of second-placed Ngezi Platinum Stars after 19 matches.
Manica Diamonds are third, with 35 points, Dynamos are fourth with 32 points, and Chicken Inn are fifth on the log standings with 31 points.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Highlanders Coach Baltemar Brito Interested In Warriors Job

Highlanders coach Baltemar Brito has claimed that the decision to cancel the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) tie against Dynamos at short notice was meant to protect Dynamos who have failed to score in the last two matches.
Earlier this week, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) ordered the PSL to cancel the match that was pencilled for this Saturday to allow the two clubs to participate in the Independence Day Trophy final.
The Independence Day Trophy final will be played at Pfura Stadium in Mount Darwin in Mashonaland Central province on Tuesday next week.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200010144/bosso-cry-foul">NewsDay</a> on Thursday, Brito said Dynamos had less time to prepare for the league match after playing the last match on Easter Monday while Bosso had played theirs three days earlier (on Good Friday).
It is therefore Brito’s view that the “The Battle of Zimbabwe” was cancelled to protect Dynamos who have also experienced a couple of injuries. Said Brito:
<blockquote>
About the cancellation of the game, we cannot run way from this subject because; no hard feelings, but this decision was only to protect Dynamos because they are coming from two draws.
They had some players who were not having good moments at all; they have some injuries.
Add to that they had to travel to Bulawayo for that game after playing on Monday, so the week of preparation wasn’t going to be the best for them.
Everyone knows that the decision was not to protect football but to protect Dynamos from this game.
Right now we need to respect that decision and the next game is against them (Dynamos) in a cup match.
But they are staying in Harare, they are fresh; we need to travel.
The cancellation of the league game three days before means that in our week of preparation, there have to be a lot of changes.
Our plan was to play on Saturday and now everything is different.
Again our next game (in the league) is against Yadah, we don’t know whether Friday or Saturday.
We don’t know if we will have to come back to Bulawayo (after the cup final on Tuesday) or if we stay there.
So in terms of preparations, we just hope the football authorities have the same way for both teams because to come back and travel to Harare is not fair.
If one team is protected, the other should be protected as well.
</blockquote>
Highlanders said they will field their best team in the Independence Trophy final while Dynamos have four players ruled out due to injuries.
Denver Mukamba, captain Frank Makarati, Donald Mudadi, and reserve goalkeeper Prince Tafiremutsa will not make the trip to Mt Darwin.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Uhuru Cup: Government Favours Dynamos, Claims Highlanders Coach

Highlanders head coach Baltemar Brito will miss his team’s 2023 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season-opening match against ZPC Kariba, reported the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/bosso-coach-off-to-portugal/">Chronicle</a>.
The 71-year-old Portuguese national is set to leave Zimbabwe this Tuesday for his home country for a refresher course.
Brito is a Uefa Pro Coaching licence holder with vast experience. The Uefa Pro badge is the highest world-recognised qualification in football that enables one to coach anywhere in the world.
The licence is valid for three years therefore holders have to renew it in order to continue carrying out their coaching duties.
Brito has worked as Jose Mourinho’s assistant coach at FC Porto in Portugal, Chelsea in England, and Inter Milan in Italy.
Highlanders communications and marketing officer Nozibelo Maphosa confirmed Brito’s unavailability for the opening match of the season. She said:
<blockquote>
Coach Brito is leaving this week to regularise his Uefa Pro in Portugal.
We will be announcing our 2023 technical staff before the start of our 2023 season.
</blockquote>
In the absence of Brito, club legend Madinda Ndlovu, who was recently appointed as the first-team assistant coach and head of junior development, will be in charge of the first team.
The club is reportedly making plans to ensure Joel Luphahla and Antonio Torres sit on the bench with reassigned titles.
Last season, Luphahla and Torres were prohibited from the bench as ZIFA implemented club licensing which requires PSL coaches and their assistants to be CAF A licence holders.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Highlanders Coach Baltemar Brito To Miss 2023 Season Opener

Highlanders coach Baltemar Brito said midfielder Joel “Josta” Ngodzo was released by the club because he was underperforming.
The 70-year-old Brazilian said he does not care about Ngodzo’s stature in the local premiership. He said:
<blockquote>
Joel no longer belongs to our club. We wish him all the luck in the next project of his career. He was a professional player.
We just decided to release him because we don’t mind the status of a player, but we are only worried about performance and we felt that he could not fit what was required for the position that he played.
We know that he is big but we don’t care about that status, we care about performance.
Maybe he can go to any other club and do well because he is not a bad player. It was only a technical decision.
We looked at him and we said: ‘He doesn’t have the pace and the background that we need for that position’ and we said he had better go to another club for the betterment of his career.
</blockquote>
Highlanders announced on Wednesday that they had parted ways with Ngodzo by mutual consent.
Josta has been linked with a return to CAPS United where he was crowned Soccer Star of the Year in 2019.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/07/brito-opens-up-on-jostas-dismissal/">NewsDay</a>

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