Zimbabwe’s Arubi, 39, reveals his secret to success after stunning display against Nigeria

After shutting out Nigeria during Zimbabwe’s crucial World Cup qualifier, Warriors' goalkeeper Washington Arubi has revealed the secret behind his longevity, Soccernet.ng reports.

At 39, Washington Arubi continues to defy age and expectations.

The Zimbabwean goalkeeper, who turns 40 in six months, delivered a commanding performance to help his side secure a dramatic 1-1 draw against Nigeria in Tuesday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Despite facing a star-studded Super Eagles attack, Arubi stood firm, making crucial saves to deny Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Tolu Arokodare.

Arubi's shot-stoping prowess, combined with a well-organised Zimbabwean defence, frustrated Nigeria for much of the game.

Although Osimhen managed to break the deadlock in the 74th minute — ghosting past his markers to finish clinically — Zimbabwe responded in stoppage time.

Tawanda Chirewa's late strike ensured the Warriors left Uyo with a vital point, denting Nigeria’s hopes of smooth passage to the World Cup.

Warriors goalkeeper Washington Arubi named in the Africa Soccer Zone team of the week after his performance against Nigeria . pic.twitter.com/G2WyiFfjAU

— Undisputed️ (@Mr_Tich) March 26, 2025

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What Arubi said of his longevity 

Following his standout display, Arubi opened up about the secret to his longevity.

In an interview with FARPost, the Marumo Gallants shot-stopper credited self-discipline and a strict training regimen for his ability to perform at the highest level as he nears 40.

“First of all, I want to thank you for the recognition of being one of the oldest goalkeepers in PSL. To be honest with you, I always try to keep my discipline on point every day and push myself every day to do better,” Arubi told FARPost.

“That means I always give myself extra training sessions, and I do make sure that I train twice a day, considering our schedule. And at this age, it is also important to control what I eat and drink and to get more rest.

“It’s all about believing and putting in the work, no matter what, you know how our industry is. My wish is to stay fit and pray every day not to experience long injuries.

“Of course, injuries are part of the game, but we keep on going and always thank God, but being disciplined on and off the field has really helped me.”

Arubi's commitment has not gone unnoticed.

Zimbabwe head coach Michael Nees has confirmed that Arubi remains his first-choice goalkeeper for both club and country, keeping in-form Magesi FC shot-stopper Elvis Chipezeze on the bench.

Arubi has also maintained his spot as Gallants’ No.1 this season, making 17 league appearances so far. And despite his age, retirement is not on his mind. The veteran goalkeeper is already targeting a place in Zimbabwe’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Since moving to South Africa in 2012, Arubi has enjoyed a nomadic career, playing for clubs such as the University of Pretoria, Black Aces, Stellenbosch FC, SuperSport United, and Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila. Before joining Gallants at the start of the season, he was part of the squad at SuperSport United.

With his discipline, work ethic, and faith, Arubi is proving that age is just a number.

And after keeping Nigeria at bay, he remains a key figure in Zimbabwe’s push for World Cup qualification.