Surprise absence of Sheffield Wednesday's Sean Fusire explained as key AFCON clash awaits

The Owls defender started Zimbabwe’s final two games ahead of the AFCON, so it was a surprise not to see his name in the line-up for their opening game against Egypt earlier this week. Godknows Murwira started in his place.

Now, though, the Zimbabwean Football Association has confirmed in an update that the 20-year-old - alongside a couple of his teammates - missed the first game due to an injury. All three are now back in contention for tomorrow’s clash with Palancas Negras, and Fusire will be hoping that he gets the nod from manager, Mario Marinică.

Why Sean Fusire was missing for Zimbabwe

“The Zimbabwe Warriors held a full training session today from 1000hrs to 1200hrs,” they said. “With strong intensity and positive energy evident throughout camp. All players were in attendance, with the sole exception of Munashe Garananga, who was unable to take part after sustaining a dead leg. His condition continues to be monitored by the medical team.

“Encouragingly, Knowledge Musona, Sean Fusire, and Divine Lunga, who were unavailable for selection in the match against Egypt due to injury, successfully completed the entire training session alongside the rest of the squad. Their full participation is a significant boost to the technical team, with all three players showing sharpness, confidence, and a clear readiness to return to competitive action.

“Overall, morale remains high in camp, competition for places is intense, and the group is fully focused as preparations continue for the next assignment against Angola in Marrakech.”

Yan Valery became the first Wednesday player to turn out in an AFCON fixture as he helped Tunisia beat Uganda 3-1 on Tuesday night, and Fusire could now follow suit as the Warriors look to bounce day from their narrow defeat to the Pharaohs in game one.