The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is set to recruit a substantive Warriors coach following the expiry of interim coach Norman Mapeza’s contract.

Mapeza replaced sacked Zdravko Logarusic in September last year and was initially tasked with reviving the Warriors’ 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign but the contract was extended further to cover the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Cameroon.

The former Warriors captain’s contract ended last week following the Warriors’ early exit from AFCON. ZIFA’s acting head of secretariat, Xolisani Gwesela, said:

Mapeza’s contract was for this tournament. It was an interim arrangement that was made between him and ZIFA and I can confirm the contract ended at the tournament.

However, it might sound too early now for me to comment further. We will advise the nation of the way forward at the appropriate time.

Mapeza, who is fully employed by premiership club FC Platinum, was being assisted by Taurayi Mangwiro, Mandla Mpofu and goalkeepers’ coach Energy Murambadoro.