National Sports Stadium Wins CAF Category 3 Approval

Zimbabwe’s National Sports Stadium has regained international football status after receiving Confederation of African Football (CAF) Category 3 approval, paving the way for the Warriors and local clubs to host major matches in Harare.

The approval follows a recent CAF technical inspection and progress on priority rehabilitation works at the country’s main football venue. The Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture confirmed the development on Friday, August 21. Category 3 status allows the National Sports Stadium to host CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup group-stage and quarter-final matches, as well as Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, subject to the specific requirements of each competition. CAF’s stadium regulations place group-stage and quarter-final matches in both men’s Champions League and Confederation Cup under Category 3.

Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister Anselem Sanyatwe said CAF had recognised the work undertaken by Government and the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) to address deficiencies identified during earlier inspections.

“CAF has acknowledged the considerable efforts made by the Government of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Football Association in addressing the observations raised during the inspection,” Sanyatwe said.

He also credited Sakunda Holdings for its contribution to the stadium rehabilitation programme, particularly the modernisation of the pitch and installation of bucket seats.

“Through its partnership with Government, Sakunda Holdings has played a significant role in the modernisation of the stadium pitch and the installation of bucket seats,” Sanyatwe said.

The improvements are expected to enhance the functionality and spectator experience at the National Sports Stadium while restoring Zimbabwe’s ability to host international football.

Warriors set for home return

The CAF clearance ends a prolonged period in which Zimbabwe has been forced to stage senior international fixtures outside the country because the National Sports Stadium did not meet continental requirements.

The Warriors last played a senior international at the stadium on November 14, 2021, when they faced Ethiopia in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Zimbabwe subsequently used venues in South Africa and other countries for home fixtures. The timing of the approval is particularly significant as Zimbabwe prepares for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

According to ZIFA, Zimbabwe are in Group E alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Sierra Leone. The Warriors are scheduled to face Sierra Leone away before hosting DR Congo during the opening qualification window. The AFCON 2027 qualification matches are scheduled across FIFA international windows beginning in September 2026, with further matches in November and March 2027.

Boost for Scottland

The approval is also a major boost for Scottland FC, Zimbabwe’s reigning Premier Soccer League champions, who are competing in the CAF Champions League. With Category 3 approval, the Harare club can potentially stage its eligible home matches at the National Sports Stadium, including group-stage and quarter-final fixtures, subject to CAF’s competition-specific requirements.

For Zimbabwean football, the stadium’s return to the CAF-approved list restores home advantage, reduces the cost and logistical burden of staging matches abroad and gives supporters an opportunity to watch international football on home soil.

National Sports Stadium CAF approval