Johannesburg, 7 October 2024 – Namibia has announced that their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifier against Zimbabwe will be held behind closed doors. The Brave Warriors will host the Warriors of Zimbabwe at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 10 October.
The decision to hold the match without spectators comes as Namibia faces a shortage of approved stadiums in their home country. As a result, they opted for a neutral venue in Johannesburg but chose to restrict fans from attending for this specific match.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) confirmed the arrangement:
“Please note that the Warriors’ Thursday game vs Namibia will be played behind closed doors at Namibia’s behest. A request has been made for all fans not to make their way to Orlando Stadium.”
However, fans will be allowed to attend the return fixture, scheduled for 14 October at the same venue. ZIFA assured supporters that Monday’s game, which will see Zimbabwe play as the home team, will be open to all.
The decision for Namibia to host on neutral ground highlights ongoing challenges with sports infrastructure in the region, but football fans are expected to turn out in numbers for the second match of this crucial Group J tie. Both sides will be looking for a victory as they continue their campaigns to qualify for the 2025 AFCON tournament.
