Kadewere's AFCON Dream in Jeopardy After Devastating Knee Injury - AfroGazette

Tinotenda Kadewere's road to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has taken a painful turn after the Zimbabwe international suffered a serious knee injury during training with his Greek club, Aris Thessaloniki. The 29-year-old striker tore the medial meniscus in his right knee last week and has since undergone surgery -- a development that could rule him out of the continental tournament set for December in Morocco. Aris Thessaloniki confirmed the injury in an official statement, expressing disappointment over the timing. "Unfortunately, the news is not good for Tino Kadewere. According to the MRI results, the Zimbabwe international striker, who was injured in training, suffered a torn medial meniscus in his right knee and will undergo immediate surgery," the club said. Kadewere is expected to be sidelined for a minimum of three months, though his recovery could take longer depending on how his knee responds to treatment. With AFCON scheduled to run from late December into early January, the timeline places his participation in serious doubt, a major blow to Zimbabwe's attacking options. According to Nehanda Radio, the injury comes at a time when the Warriors are working to build momentum ahead of the tournament. Kadewere, one of the team's most experienced forwards, was expected to play a key role in Zimbabwe's campaign. His absence could force the technical team to rethink its attacking strategy just weeks before the squad is finalised. In contrast, there is some positive news for Zimbabwe's frontline. Fellow striker Thando Ngwenya, who picked up an ankle injury in a recent match against Kaizer Chiefs, is reportedly close to full recovery. He began rehabilitation two weeks ago and is expected to be match-fit within the next week -- a timely boost for the Warriors' preparations. As the countdown to AFCON continues, the national team's medical and coaching staff will be monitoring both players closely. While Ngwenya's return offers hope, Kadewere's uncertain recovery timeline leaves a critical gap in Zimbabwe's forward line and a race against time to find a solution.