Copyright nehandaradio
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and its senior national team players, the Warriors, are locked in a standoff over remuneration for the upcoming AFCON finals, with players yet to sign the contracts drafted by the association. According to the proposed contracts, players would receive US$2,000 as an appearance fee, US$5,000 for a win, US$2,500 for a draw, and a US$100 daily allowance. However, the Warriors have rejected the offer, pushing for a return to the 2019 contract structure, which provided US$5,000 appearance fees, US$5,000 winning bonuses, US$3,000 draw bonuses, and US$200 daily allowances. It remains unclear whether ZIFA will revise the figures or if the players will eventually compromise. The impasse raises fears of potential protests or underperformance during the tournament. Commenting on the situation, Belgium-based former Warriors left back Cephas Chimedza said: “It’s difficult for any player to accept reduced terms, that’s why we see at club level some players remain at a team without game time, simply because other clubs can’t match their current salaries. “The fact there are players in the squad who were part of the 2019 team makes it complicated. Going from US$5,000 to US$2,000 seems too drastic. Hopefully they find common ground soon.” Meanwhile, ZIFA’s leadership is reportedly considering reverting to the 2019 contracts.
