Sithembinkosi L. Jiyane
Sports Reporter
A full Zimbabwean refereeing team and multiple high-profile assignments at FIFA World Cup 2026 and Africa Women’s Cup of Nations 2026 qualifiers highlight the nation’s rising influence in international football officiating.
Zimbabwe is making waves on the international football scene, with its referees securing key appointments for upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 and Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWC) 2026 qualifiers. These achievements highlight the growing recognition of Zimbabwean officiating at the highest level.
On 13 October 2025, a historic moment will unfold as a full Zimbabwean refereeing team takes charge of the FIFA World Cup Qualifier between Equatorial Guinea and Liberia at Estadio de Malabo.
Brighton Chimene will serve as referee, assisted by Luckson Mhara and Tafadzwa Nkala, with Lawrence Zimondi as Fourth Official.
This will mark the first time an entire officiating team from Zimbabwe is appointed at this level, showcasing the nation’s depth of talent.
The spotlight will shift on 24 October 2025, when referee assessor Sabelo Maphosa-Sibindi will oversee the FIFA World Cup Qualifier between Cape Verde and Mali in Cidade da Praia.
Maphosa-Sibindi’s appointment is a significant milestone for Zimbabwean football and a reflection of the nation’s growing expertise in officiating. The role demonstrates the trust CAF places in Zimbabwean referees and their ability to meet FIFA’s global standards.
That same day, Zimbabwean female referees will also feature prominently. Chipo Mayimbo Mercy has been appointed to officiate the AWC 2026 qualifier between Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire at Stade Lat Dior in Senegal, highlighting the rise of women’s refereeing in the country.
Zimbabwe’s representation continues on 28 October 2025, with Claris Sekai Simango and Grace Gimo taking charge in another AWC qualifier between Nigeria and Benin as Assistant Referee 1 and Fourth Official, respectively.
These appointments reinforce Zimbabwe’s growing influence in women’s football and CAF’s confidence in its officials.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has welcomed the appointments as a source of national pride. ZIFA said such honours inspire younger referees and strengthen Zimbabwe’s position in the global football community.
“This recognition is not just for the individuals, but for the entire nation. It shows that Zimbabwean referees can perform at the highest level and gives hope to the next generation,” ZIFA said.
Sabelo Maphosa-Sibindi’s appointment as Referee Assessor for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier between Cape Verde and Mali is a landmark achievement for Zimbabwe.
Scheduled for 24 October 2025 in Cidade da Praia, the role reflects growing confidence in Zimbabwe’s refereeing standards and affirms the nation’s ability to contribute to world football at the highest level.
As Zimbabwe’s referees prepare for these fixtures, they stand as ambassadors of fairness, integrity, and excellence, continuing to raise the national flag high on the global stage.
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