Zimbabwe fire head coach Michael Nees after dismal run

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has fired head coach Michael Nees after a poor stretch in charge of the Warriors.

ZIFA announced the decision on Wednesday, ending the German coach’s reign less than a year after he took over in September 2024.

Nees failed to deliver results, managing only two wins in 16 games, recording just two victories in 16 matches, both against Namibia in last year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. 

Under his watch, Zimbabwe finished last in Group C of the FIFA World Cup African qualifiers with five losses and five draws.

“ZIFA wishes to inform all stakeholders that the Executive Committee has resolved to terminate the contract of Mr. Michael Nees with immediate effect,” the association said. 

“We thank him for his efforts and commitment to Zimbabwean football during his tenure.”

ZIFA is now searching for a new head coach to guide the team through its AFCON campaign.

The body said it will reveal interim arrangements soon as part of its broader reform and development plan.