Knowledge Musona played a pivotal role for Zimbabwe, scoring a crucial equalizer as they rallied from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 against Benin in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Thursday night.

Musona, known for his time at Kaizer Chiefs, netted the equalizer at the near post, capitalizing on Benin’s second-half lapse after they had dominated the first half with two goals.

This result significantly boosts Zimbabwe’s hopes of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup finals. Entering the match at the bottom of Group C with two points from four games, they desperately needed a positive outcome.

Zimbabwe faced a daunting task, having not won a World Cup qualifier since defeating Somalia in 2019. This prompted their decision to recall Musona from retirement, alongside former Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs star Khama Billiat, the 2015/16 PSL Footballer of the Year.

Musona partnered with Prince Dube upfront, while Marshal Munetsi, playing for Wolves in England, captained the midfield.

However, Zimbabwe’s start was disastrous. In the 12th minute, Steve Mounie capitalized on a defensive error, slotting home into an empty net after Washington Arubi’s attempted clearance was intercepted by Doku Dodo, who set up his captain.

This goal was a relief for Mounie, who has struggled for playing time at his club, Augsburg in the German Bundesliga.

Despite a sparse crowd at the iconic stadium, the atmosphere was electric, with fans particularly vocal whenever Billiat and Musona touched the ball.

Benin doubled their lead in the 36th minute, slicing through Zimbabwe’s defense. Doku, who provided the assist for the first goal, scored from close range following a give-and-go between himself and Junior Olaitan.

Zimbabwe’s comeback seemed improbable, as they struggled to break down Benin’s defense. However, just before halftime, Munetsi pulled one back, scoring on the turn from a Jordan Zemura cross.

Zimbabwe improved significantly in the second half, particularly with the introduction of Tawanda Chirewa, who replaced Dube. Chirewa’s omission from the starting lineup was surprising, given his impressive performance against Bafana Bafana in June.

Musona then leveled the score, scoring at the near post from another Zemura assist, this time a clever free kick. Benin was caught off guard by the set play, allowing Musona to peel away and score.

The crowd at Moses Mabhida Stadium, which grew throughout the match, erupted.

Musona nearly scored his second in the 79th minute, but Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou made a crucial save from close range.

This draw puts Benin at the top of Group C with eight points from five matches. Bafana Bafana, who host Lesotho on Friday, have the opportunity to move to the top alongside Rwanda, who face Nigeria.

Benin and Zimbabwe will play their next World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday, with Zimbabwe visiting Nigeria and Benin hosting Bafana Bafana in a neutral venue in Ivory Coast.

Only the group winners will automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, while the four best runners-up will have a second chance through the play-offs.

Pic courtesy of Ayanda Shots