Warriors striker Knowledge Musona is convinced that winning the opening match of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Liberia at home this weekend will be key in defining their quest for another dance at the big stage.

Musona who joined his teammates on Sunday has refused to underrate the West Africans who are probably regarded as the weakest link in Group G after dropping to number 151 in the world in the FIFA rankings released last week.

The 26-year old was the star of the previous campaign when his three goals helped Zimbabwe qualify, for the first time in 11 years, to the previous finals that were held in Gabon.

The Warriors began their preparations last week under interim coach Norman Mapeza. And, excited by the spirit in the team’s camp, the KV Oostende man is convinced all that begins well ends well.

Musona said Zimbabwe needed to win their first match at home this Sunday to get the head start in Group G which also includes favourites Democratic Republic of Congo and Congo–Brazzaville.

“I think it all depends on how we are going to play the first game. Then after this first match we will be able to read if we can make it or not because I think in every qualification the first game is the most crucial game especially if you are playing at home. 

"You have to collect maximum points at all costs so that you can set the pace for the coming games," said Musona.

DRC will also begin at home when they host Congo this weekend. But there will be a long break before the second match which takes place in March next year when Zimbabwe travel to Congo before the back to back clashes against DRC in September 2018. 

“I’m sure it’s a tough group and it’s a new challenge for us all because our opponents are also preparing and they also do not want to lose a game. Liberia will be coming here to fight. So we are trying to take each game as it comes.  Consequently we are looking at this match and then afterwards we will see how it goes when we resume next year. I am sure like what we did last time when we started at home we will also end the campaign at home. So there is need to work hard,” said Musona.