Warriors coach Michael Nees says the country should be grateful for having the current ZIFA leadership after his charges secured a place at next year’s Afcon finals in Morocco.

Zimbabwe qualified following their 1-1 draw against Kenya in Group J on Friday. They attained nine points, and moved four points ahead of third-placed Harambee Stars with only a game left.

The national team also qualified with an unbeaten run in the campaign, so far.

Speaking after the match, Nees said: “I want to thank the ZIFA administration, the CEO Yvonne (Manwa) and the whole staff for their work

“Because from the first day I arrived here (in Zimbabwe) three months ago, I was fully supported.

“There were no interference or fishy smells around the team like what it should be in football.

“I know there are a lot of criticism around them but after working with a lot of CEO and many federations in the past, you should be happy to have them at ZIFA right now.

“That’s what I want to say because I observe a lot of things. I know what’s coming in January.”

The ZIFA elections are set to be held early next year, and this is when a new board will be takeover from the Nomalisation Committee.