Marvelous Nakamba reveals how a costly error in Morocco pushed him to the brink of walking away from international football, a moment he describes as a personal failure to the nation he prioritizes above all else.
Feeling he had let down supporters who stood by him through difficult spells, including his time at Aston Villa, Nakamba admits the instinct was to step aside.
“I wanted to quit after that mistake in Morocco. I wanted to quit because I knew I had failed my country Zimbabwe that always comes first for me.
“I wanted to quit because I knew I had betrayed my people, the people that have a special place in my heart,” Nakamba told the Herald.
Zimbabwe needed a win to secure second place in Group B and reach a historic Round of 16. A draw might have been enough depending on other results, but the margins were always tight.
Late in the game against South Africa national football team in Morocco, the match was level at 2–2 when Marvelous Nakamba attempted a clearance that struck his hand. After a VAR review, a penalty was awarded.
Oswin Appollis converted from the spot in the 80th minute, turning the contest and sealing a 3–2 defeat. The result ultimately left Zimbabwe bottom of Group B.
However, Nakamba was reminded of the fans’ continued support through difficult periods, including his time at Aston Villa, which pushed him to stay and commit to delivering stronger performances for his country.
“These are the people who always supported me even after a dark day during my time at Aston Villa.
“And these are the people that crossed my mind and I said to myself no, I needed to continue serving and give huge performances for them,” he added.
