By A Correspondent

The Zimbabwe national team kicked off their 2024 CHAN qualifying campaign with a disappointing 3-0 loss to Eswatini in the first leg of the opening round, held on Sunday.

Due to the lack of approved stadiums in Zimbabwe, the match took place at the Obedi Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, Botswana.

In this encounter, Warriors assistant coach Takesure Chiragwi stepped in to lead the locally-based squad. Meanwhile, Zdravko Logarusic, who previously coached the Warriors three years ago, guided Sihlangu to victory against his former team.

Eswatini took an early lead in the 15th minute and extended their advantage in the 37th minute, going into halftime with a commanding three-goal lead. They successfully maintained their advantage throughout the match.

The second leg is scheduled for 2 November at Mbombela Stadium in South Africa, where Zimbabwe will look to turn the tide.