By Zim Sport Live Writer
Zimbabwe Warriors forward Tawanda Chirewa has declared his ambition to carve out legendary status for his country as he prepares for his first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament which gets underway on Sunday.
The 22-year-old Wolves attacker has grown into a key figure for the national team over the past 18 months, scoring three goals in 11 appearances, and now heads into his maiden major international tournament determined to make it count for both country and family.
Chirewa will, however, travel to AFCON without Warriors captain and Wolves teammate Marshall Munetsi, who has been ruled out through injury — a significant blow to Zimbabwe’s campaign.
Despite being born and raised in Chelmsford, England, Chirewa insists his identity has always been firmly Zimbabwean.
“I grew up in a fully Zimbabwean household,” he said in an interview with Wolverhampton Wanderers’ official website.
“I was born in England, but that’s not what my upbringing was like. I ate Zimbabwean food, I speak the language — that’s all I’ve known.
“When the time came to choose between pushing for England youth football or representing Zimbabwe, I knew straight away. That’s what my parents and my late grandfather would have wanted. My name is Zimbabwean, not English — that’s where I belong.”
The Wolves academy graduate speaks passionately about Zimbabwean culture, which he says keeps him grounded even while living abroad.
“The food, the vibe, the braais — that’s Zimbabwe. It can be cold or raining, but the barbecue is on, music is playing, and everyone’s together. I’m always listening to Zimbabwean music at home. That’s just me.”
Chirewa also paid tribute to Munetsi, describing the Zimbabwe deputy skipper as a mentor who has played a crucial role in his development both at club and international level.
“Marshall is a great guy. He guides me every day — to keep pushing, stay positive and work hard. His work rate and mentality have rubbed off on me. He’s shown me that the only way to change your situation is through hard work.”
Although Munetsi will miss the tournament, Chirewa remains upbeat about Zimbabwe’s chances and believes the Warriors can surprise many on the continental stage.
“I’m buzzing for AFCON. I believe we’re going to shock a lot of countries and a lot of people. This is my first major tournament and I want to show the world how good Zimbabwe is.”
For Chirewa, representing the Warriors goes beyond football — it is deeply personal.
“Playing for Zimbabwe is something I hold dear to my heart. I want to be a great player for Zimbabwe. I want to be a legend for Zimbabwe.
“AFCON is a big step towards that. If I can help us go far in the tournament, I know I’ll be one step closer to achieving what I want for my country.”
Zimbabwe open their AFCON campaign against Egypt, a fixture Chirewa says he has already visualised.
“All I’m thinking about is that first game. I’ve seen myself scoring, I’ve seen us winning and getting out of the group. It’s exciting times, and I can’t wait to get started.”
With youthful belief, cultural pride and a point to prove, Chirewa heads to AFCON determined to write his name into Zimbabwean football history.