REAL MADRID’S Gareth Bale has been labelled the star most likely to leave if the Spanish giants snap up their top transfer target Kylian Mbappe from Monaco.

Reports in France claim 18-year-old Mbappe — who has been strongly linked with a move to the La Liga champions —could trigger the Welshman’s departure from the Bernabeu.

According to French sports newspaper L’Equipe – out of Madrid’s deadly frontline trio of Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema – the former Spurs man would be the player most likely to exit the club.

The paper also detailed that Zinedine Zidane and Real’s club president Florentino Perez had met with Mbappe for a “secret conversation”.

During the clandestine catch-up the influential pair informed the most exciting prospect in world football they’d consider selling Bale in a bid to allow him more game-time.

Their proposed plans are sure to alert Manchester United and Jose Mourinho -which could see the Old Trafford outfit attempt to lure Bale back to the Premier League. — Daily Mail

Rodrick Mutuma

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
BULAWAYO giants Highlanders and Harare’s Dynamos have been invited to a four-team tournament to be held next month at Francistown Sports Complex, Botswana.

The Supa Power Cup which will feature former Botswana champions Mochudi Centre Chiefs and Tafic Sporting Club’s be-Mobile is set for July 29.

Bosso and Dynamos were invited by Joy Sports Foundation who are using the competition to raise funds for the construction of a grassroots sports facility in that country.

Murphy Chris Jinde, Joy Sports Foundation’s public relations officer confirmed inviting Highlanders and Dynamos.

He said they are waiting for the Zimbabwean giants to sign their contracts.

Jinde said teams and line-ups will be chosen by fans who will vote for the players that they want to start for their teams.

The concept that Joy Sports Foundation is similar to that used by organisers of the Carling Black Label Cup which features South African giants Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.

The teams and line-ups for the Carling Black Label Cup which acts as a rehearsal for the forthcoming new season in South African football are chosen by Carling Black Label customers who submit an 11-digit code which is found on Carling products and have their vote registered. Customers also choose which substitutions to make in-game by voting via text message.

Jinde said the clubs will get a percentage of the money generated from smses.

“Our intention is to have the Supa Power Cup being an annual competition. Our goal is to use the tournament to raise funds for a sports facility meant for grassroots development. We’re happy that Zimbabwean giants Highlanders and Dynamos have agreed to be part of the Supa Power Cup. In terms of prizes the contracts that we’re working on will see the clubs taking a certain percentage from the money generated from voting through text messages. However, I must emphasise that each player will get P5 000 appearance fee,” said Jinde.

Joy Sports Foundation is a non-profit making organisation that seeks to develop Botswana’s rural-based youth through sport.

There are a number of Zimbabweans who are based in Botswana who will take up the opportunity to watch the giants play in that country.

Even football lovers based in Bulawayo and Plumtree are likely to cross the border to watch the giants.

Highlanders’ chief executive officer Nhlanhla Dube said: “We’ve agreed in principle to play at a tournament in Botswana, but we’re yet to sign the contract as there are some details that we’re still looking into. Participating at such competitions isn’t necessarily for money, but what is important is to grow our brand beyond the borders. By playing at such tournaments we extend our reach, the brand footprint becomes broader and this is also good even to market our sponsors.” — @ZililoR

Takudzwa Chitsiga, Harare Bureau
LUC RICHARD Mbah a Moute, the Cameroonian National Basketball Association star, jetted into the country for a high-profile three-day training camp.

The Los Angeles Clippers forward arrived at Harare International Airport on the same flight with Caps United.

The forward is set to host the inaugural Luc Mbah a Moute Top 50 Basketball Camp for the best young male basketball players at Eaglesvale Senior School starting today.

The tour has been facilitated by iBelieve Sports Academy and Fundamentally Astute Athletics.

“We hope we will be able to select one or two players. I think there is talent and some young kids just need to be given a chance like I was given to get a scholarship on basketball,” said Moute.

There will be an all-star game tomorrow and, thereafter, he will also visit various children’s homes, schools and underprivileged communities.

The 30-year-old is the starting small forward for the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers.

Tavengwa Mukuhlani

Harare Bureau
ZIMBABWE Cricket will receive $94 million during the 2016 to 2023 cycle, the ICC Board confirmed on Thursday.

South Africa, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand and West Indies receive $128m each while India will receive $405m during the same period.

England will get the second largest share of $139m.

Last month, Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani welcomed the resolution by ICC which will see the country getting an improved financial package of $94 million under the global organisation’s new revenue-sharing model.

“This is a welcome development. We really need funding for our programmes. I am sure it’s not only a boost for Zimbabwe but for other Full Members as well.

“Under the previous system, we should have been getting $75 million for the eight years but it has increased significantly. I am sure it will go a long way.

“Money can never be enough with all the obligations that we face, but it will certainly change the outlook,” said Mukuhlani.

Zimbabwe Cricket also revealed they have put in a bid to host the 2018 ICC World Cup Qualifier, a cricket tournament meant to decide the final qualification for the 2019 World Cup in England.

The top two teams at the qualifier event will join the eight teams, who will have already qualified for the World Cup through their ranking in the ICC ODI Championship.

The 2018 ICC World Cup Qualifier was originally scheduled to take place in Bangladesh, but this is likely to change as Bangladesh appear certain to qualify automatically for the prestigious 50-over tournament.

Zimbabwe will contest for the rights against Scotland and Ireland, who have submitted a joint bid.

“We stand a good chance to host this tournament because we are a full member and we have better facilities. Remember we have hosted World Cup matches before and I’m sure we have the infrastructure and facilities that are quite capable of having a flawless event.

“It will be a massive boost to the cricket in Zimbabwe if we are to win the bid. We also have an advantage that we have the best weather in comparison to the other nations that have lined up for this bid,” said Mukuhlani.

Meanwhile, Tom Curran, the 22-year-old son of former Zimbabwe cricketer Kevin Curran, made his Twenty20 International debut for England against South Africa yesterday.

Tom picked 3-33 on his debut for England.

Tom is the son of former Zimbabwe all-rounder Kevin Curran who represented the country at the 1983 and 1987 ICC Cricket World Cup.

Kevin died on October 10, 2012, at a time he was the head of the Zimbabwe Cricket Academy.

He also coached the Zimbabwe national team between August 2005 and September 2007.

Minister Makhosini Hlongwane

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
THE National Sport and Recreation Policy document is finally in the public domain almost a year after its approval by Cabinet.

The policy aims to unlock the potential of sport and recreation as an industry and address the re-organisation of the sector through a “Sport and Recreation For All” approach that envisages the democratisation of and the decentralisation of sport and recreation delivery agents to the grassroots and other previously disadvantaged communities.

It also seeks the establishment of a sound competitions structure that starts from the base of the pyramid to the national level by all sport and recreationdelivery agents.

The competitions structure should promote the identification, development and tracking of talent from the grassroots level to the top of the pyramid.

The document had not been accessible since its adoption by Cabinet in August last year but on Wednesday, the Minister of Sport and Recreation Makhosini Hlongwane ordered his staff to release it to delegates attending the Zimbabwe National Youth Games general assembly at a city hotel.

“I hope that you brought policy documents for these people, the national policy, at least they must have it, they can take away the national policy from here. These are the sports practitioners, they should interact with the policy document, if you have not make sure it is delivered, they must have the policy document,” said Minister Hlongwane.

The 32 page document covers various topical issues within the sports industry.

In the foreword, the President Mugabe says the policy was formulated to provide a framework within which sport and recreation activities are to be promoted and supported in order to realise the vision of an active, empowered and excelling sporting nation.

“The constitution of the Republic of Zimbabwe impresses an obligation on the State to take all practical measures to encourage sporting and recreational activities, including the provision of sporting and recreational facilities for all. This is in recognition of the immense contribution of sport to the nation building and social cohesion. To this end the Government seeks to create the necessary conditions for all Zimbabwean to benefit from sport and recreation through the promulgation of this Policy,” said President Mugabe.

He further states that as enunciated in the national economic blue print, “sport is expected to play its part in job creation, economic transformation and the empowerment of all Zimbabweans, especially the youth.

“To realise this aspiration, concerted effort will be made to catapult the sport industry onto a path of sustainable growth. In addition, sport tourism will be enhanced through the hosting of mega international events,” said the President. — @skhumoyo2000.

The late Edzai Kasinauyo

Grace Chingoma, Harare Bureau
FORMER Warriors defender George Mbwando broke down yesterday at a funeral palour in Harare where a memorial service was held for the late Zimbabwean footballer and administrator Edzai Kasinauyo ahead of his burial today.

Kasinauyo, who died in Johannesburg last Friday, will be buried at Glen Forest cemetry in Harare at 2pm today.

His close friend, George Mbwando, whom he partnered on a number of projects after their retirement from the game, including catering for orphaned children in Hwange through the Football Against HIV/AIDS project, broke down during yesterday’s body viewing.

He could only say his life will never be the same again.

“I have lost the other part of myself. I am a half now,” said Mbwando, who flew all the way from his base in Germany to attend the funeral of his friend.

Harlington Shereni says his generation should carry on the work which the late Kasinauyo started and ensure they play a big part in helping develop Zimbabwe football.

Kasinauyo was 42 and has left behind two sons Jayden (12) and Justin (10).

He had divorced his wife of 12 years, Faith Fadzai Makoni, last year.

It was a sombre moment as scores of people, including former players, administrators and supporters joined the family which included Edzai’s father Forbes Chidemo and his mother Theresa Chidemo at the parlour.

“It is really something hard to take. I even remember the first day I started playing professionally, we met at Raylton Sports Club. From there a great journey begun. I have no words to describe him, his death is too much of a blow for me,” said Shereni.

“He had a great vision for football and I hope the guys left we will be able to do something in his honour because his life was cut short before he would implement everything.

”His vision should not be lost by his death and we (former players) should promote his ideas.”

Zifa board member Philemon Machana, Zifa acting chief executive Joseph Mamutse, former Zifa chief executive Jonathan Mashingaidze,  former PSL chief executive Chris Sambo, former Zifa board member and women’s football boss Miriam Sibanda, former Warriors manager Charles “Mafripa” Dzvairo, Warriors fan Gladman “Dallas” Sekawawana, former footballers Kennedy Nagoli, Alois Bunjira, Thomas Sweswe, Norman Maroto, Dynamos assistant coach Biggie Zuze and sport casters Barry Manandi and Mike Madoda were some of the people from the football community who gathered at the parlour yesterday.

More people are expected to descend on the private cemetery today to bid farewell to the Warrior who was part of the national team which went to the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. Former Warriors skipper and Mamelodi Sundowns manager Peter Ndlovu was expected in the capital last night.

A number of South African players are also expected to attend the funeral.

Sunday Chidzambwa

Petros Kausiyo in SUN CITY, South Africa
STAND-IN Zimbabwe coach Sunday Chidzambwa believes the 2017 Cosafa Castle Cup provides the Warriors with a great chance to widen their selection base for the African Cup of Nations and Chan campaigns.

This year’s edition of Southern Africa’s flagship tournament will burst into life at the Moruleng Stadium tomorrow when guest nation Tanzania face Malawi at 3pm before four-time champions Angola take on Mauritius at the same venue two and half  hours later.

Chidzambwa is making a return to the tournament he has twice won before in 2003 and 2009.

The revered coach noted that the Warriors rarely get a chance to play international friendly matches and reckoned that such competitions like the Cosafa Castle Cup provided that platform for the bulk of the fringe players to get exposure and also stake claims for regular places in the Nations Cup or World Cup squads.

The Warriors will get their Cosafa Castle Cup Group B campaign underway with a clash against Mozambique at Moruleng Stadium on Monday.

They will then face Madagascar and Seychelles at Royal Bafokeng stadium on Wednesday and Friday next week respectively.

Chidzambwa has made no secret of his intentions of going beyond the group stage and actually challenge for the honours this year and has blended his team with five South Africa-based players — Ovidy Karuru, George Chigova, Michelle Katsvairo, Knox Mutizwa and Eric Chipeta.

The veteran coach defended his inclusion of the seasoned players arguing that he wanted them to provide the guiding light to the rookies such as Black Rhinos defender Bruce Homora, Yadah Stars’ 18-year-old midfielder Leeroy Mavunga and Blessing Majarira of Northern Region Division One title aspirants Herentals.

“I think these tournaments are there for us to develop especially the up-and-coming players for example we have Leroy from Yadah who is still 18 and very talented and we have the striker from Herentals (Majarira) and I think it is important to groom them in such competitions where there is less pressure.

“Most of the players we brought here don’t have regular game time in the Warriors Afcon squad and this is the time to see how good they are and this all being done to give the national coach a bigger selection base.

“You also infuse the youngsters with the experienced guys like Ovidy who is talented and can drive a team and this helps the inexperienced players with handling the new stage.

“We also have local players like Ocean and Liberty Chakoroma whose experience will be useful in such games and especially as we also look ahead at the upcoming Chan assignments, which are for local players only,’’ Chidzambwa said.

None of the Warriors’ Group B opponents have won this competition before but Chidzambwa insists that should not be reason to look down on the Mambas and the Indian Ocean island pair of Madagascar and Seychelles.

“Records do not really count in football these days. There are not small teams anymore and one just needs to look at how much Swaziland have improved and they almost qualified for the last Nations Cup and they have been positing some good results.

“We just have to avoid being complacent and apply the same fighting spirit in every game,’’ Chidzambwa said.

Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko (right) receives footballs from the Minister of Sport and Recreation Cde Makhosini Hlongwane as a token of appreciation after the VP officially launched the Community Sports and Recreation Club System at Nyamandlovu primary school in Nyamandlovu yesterday.

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
THE delivery of sport and recreation before independence was deliberately designed to exclude blacks from opportunities provided by sport and recreation.

Also the minority white population reserved some sport codes for themselves.

This was said by Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko when he launched the historic Community Sports and Recreation Club system at Nyamandlovu Primary School in Umguza district, Matabeleland North province  yesterday.

In order to correct the anomalous situation VP Mphoko said, Cabinet adopted the Community Sport and Recreation Club system and directed its immediate implementation.

“The national launch of the club system is the first of a series of events aimed at promoting the program which is a lifeline for the thousands if not millions of youths in Zimbabwe. The club system is expected to introduce organised sport and recreation in rural and formerly marginalised communities at the ward level throughout the country,” said VP Mphoko.

He said the clubs being formed will be complete with elected executives and constitutions to guide their operations.  He added that it was a ground breaking institutional intervention that will provide clear career pathways for the previously disadvantaged youths and marginalised talent from the rural communities.

“Sport and recreation provide the lungs for a nation and must be taken very seriously by all institutions and stakeholders across the country. This club system we are launching today will not only contribute to the healthy life styles of our nation but will stimulate a massive grassroots sports economy of its own, in the form of kitting, infrastructure development and production of sport and recreation equipment,” VP Mphoko told thousands of villagers who graced the occasion.

The VP called upon established clubs to partner and mentor some of the newly formed clubs to provide leadership, development and experience.

“I am informed that these clubs will be given life in the form of the revised National Youth Games strategy, a crucial competition structure which now starts at the ward level leading all the way up to the national competition in a pyramidised structure starting at grassroots level. Let me commend the Ministry of Sport and Recreation, the Sport and Recreation Commission and other stakeholders for conceiving this game changing programme which I believe will unleash Zimbabwe’s untapped talent on to the national, regional, continental and international stage,” said VP Mphoko.

The Minister of Sport and Recreation Makhosini Hlongwane, Provincial Affairs Minister for Matabeleland North Cain Mathema, senior government and sports ministry officials, acting director general for the Sports and Recreation Commission Joseph Muchechetere and traditional leaders attended the launch. — @skhumoyo2000.

Chicken Inn players wheel away in celebration after Moses Jackson heads in a corner kick (file pic)

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
POTENTIALLY explosive Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches are lined up for the weekend with the top teams hoping to cling on to their positions.

Four points separate the top team Black Rhinos, who have amassed 27 points, and eighth placed ZPC Kariba.

The few points’ difference between the top eight teams have made the championship race interesting with no clear championship favourite yet.

This means that the teams which are in the title race cannot afford to drop points as doing so could see them lose grip in the contest.

By the end of today’s fixtures, leaders Black Rhinos who are in action tomorrow may find themselves either in position two or third on the table.

Chicken Inn v Ngezi Platinum Stars (Today, Luveve Stadium): It’s a stern test for 2015 champions Chicken Inn who are third on the table tied on 27 points with leaders Rhinos and Ngezi Platinum. The platinum miners are the most lethal side in the league, scoring 23 goals in 14 outings. Chicken Inn on the other hand have a joint-second best defence with FC Platinum which has conceded five goals. The most watertight defence is that of Rhinos that has let in four goals in 13 games.

Chicken Inn come into today’s game with their heads high as they enjoy a five-match winning streak. Beating Ngezi Platinum will take their tally to 30 points, three ahead of Rhinos who play Harare City tomorrow.

A win for Ngezi Platinum can also take them to the top.

Chicken Inn and Ngezi Platinum can move above Rhinos only for 24 hours in the event that they draw.

Ngezi Platinum who were held to a 2-2 draw by Bantu Rovers go to Luveve Stadium without utility player Liberty Chakoroma and goalkeeper Takabva Mawaya who are in South Africa with Warriors’ Coasafa Cup squad. They are also said to be missing the services of injured central defender Patson Jaure. Chicken Inn will only miss midfielder Innocent Mucheneka who is on national duty.

Players expected to carry the day for Chicken Inn include goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze who has kept five consecutive clean sheets, defenders Moses Jackson, Guide Goddard, Divine Lunga and Passmore Bernard.

The midfield quintet of Clemence Matawu, Tafadzwa Kutinyu, Thabani Goredema, Chris Samakweri and George Majika as well as favoured forward Darryl Nyandoro complete Chicken Inn’s team likely to start.

Ngezi Platinum’s hopes will be pinned on goalkeeper Nelson Chadya, midfielders Xolisani Moyo, Dominic Mukandi and Walter Mukanga and offensive players Donald Teguru, Clive Augusto and Terrence Dzukamanja.

FC Platinum v Tsholotsho FC (Today, Mandava): FC Platinum’s 13-match unbeaten run in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League might count for nothing in the championship race unless they start turning draws into wins.

The platinum miners are seventh on the table with 23 points from 13 outings and  last weekend drew their eighth match of the season, a 0-0 stalemate with ZPC Kariba.

Being the only unbeaten team in the league, the platinum miners face rock bottom Tsholotsho FC side who are still hunting for their first victory of the season.

The odds favour FC Platinum with a victory taking them to position four.

How Mine v Highlanders (Tomorrow, Barbourfields): This is a match that Highlanders will want to maintain their dominance while the gold miners will be searching for their third win over Highlanders.

In their last eight meetings, How Mine have won twice, 1-0 and 2-1 in 2013 during their maiden PSL season. Since then, Highlanders have won four times, drawing twice.

Highlanders and How Mine are tied on 24 points, with the former sitting on position four because of a superior goal difference.

Bosso who bounced back to winning ways last week, beating Hwange 3-0 a week after losing by the same scoreline to Rhinos need to be at their best to beat How Mine who have gone for four games without a defeat.

How Mine coach Kelvin Kaindu said they will miss utility player Thembani Masuku, defensive pair of Nelson Tachi and Brian Mbiriri through injury.

They welcome back Milton Ncube who missed their 2-1 win over Yadah FC because of suspension.

“I believe this will be an exciting game and the best team of the day will win. They have good youngsters with flair as well as seasoned players so we expect a great game. Hopefully we will be able to continue with our good run,” Kaindu said.

Bosso who are without striker Prince Dube and leftback Honest Moyo who are participating at the Cosafa Cup are likely to include regulars Rodreck Mutuma, Tendai Ngulube, Allen Gahadzikwa, Simon Munawa and Benson Dube who missed the Hwange game.

The youngsters likely to be retained include defender Bukhosi Ncube, midfield pair of King Nadolo and Brian Banda as well as striker Godfrey Makaruse.

Fixtures

Today: Chicken Inn v Ngezi Platinum (Luveve), FC Platinum v Tsholotsho FC (Mandava)

Tomorrow: How Mine v Highlanders (Barbourfields), Bantu Rovers v Chapungu (Luveve), Triangle United v ZPC Kariba (Gibbo), Hwange v Shabanie Mine (Colliery), Black Rhinos v Harare City (Morris Depot), Dynamos v Bulawayo City (National Sports Stadium)

Tuesday: Yadah FC v Caps United (Morris Depot) -@ZililoR

Minister Makhosini Hlongwane

Sikhumbuzo Moyo
THE rebranded Zimbabwe National Youth Games’ budget has been set at a staggering $2 million due to an increase in the number of athletes and officials that will participate in this year’s competition in Matabeleland North.

This year’s Games will have 22 sport codes compared to the generic eight since their inception in 2003.

The new sport codes are rowing, swimming, rugby, hockey, cricket, pool, chess, darts, gymnastic, weightlifting, martial arts, cycling, table tennis and traditional games. These will be in addition to football, basketball, handball, tennis, volleyball, boxing, athletics and netball.

The additional sport codes will see about 15 000 athletes and officials taking part in the Games, with this figure set to double to 30 000 at next year’s Games to be held in the Midlands.

Briefing Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko in Umguza district before the official launch of the Community Sports and Recreation Club System at Nyamandlovu Primary School on Friday, Sport and Recreation Minister Makhosini Hlongwane said Treasury might not be able to finance the games alone and appealed for maximum support from stakeholders.

“Our budget is over $2 million in order to successfully host these games and if we request such money from Treasury, it might be hard for us to get, but if we get assistance, especially in terms of food, it will knock down our budget,” said Hlongwane.

“We want to make a big difference; we want Matabeleland North to make a first in terms of sports in this country. We will have more than 12 000 athletes from all over the country made up of universities, colleges, the army and the police,” Hlongwane said.

The Community Sport and Recreation Club System is an attempt by the Government to integrate previously marginalised talent into mainstream sport and recreation activities, in addition to introducing organised sport in previously disadvantaged communities.

In the foreword of the Community Sport and Recreation Club System booklet, Hlongwane said Zimbabwe always struggled on the international sporting arena due to residual colonial structures of sport and recreation, which deliberately excluded a large constituency of talent, especially that situated in rural areas where most talent resides.

“The structural deficiencies of the colonial era led to National Sports Associations failing to decentralise their operations to provincial, district as well as community levels, making sport and recreation a domain of the elite only residing in cities and towns.

“This policy document seeks to address those structural deficiencies and weaknesses and therefore is the genesis of a process of fully integrating rural and other communities into mainstream sport in Zimbabwe,” said Hlongwane.

@skhumoyo2000

Oscar Rusenga in Triangle
Triangle 1-0 ZPC Kariba

TRIANGLE recorded an important victory at home after they laboured to this narrow win over ZPC Kariba in Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Gibbo yesterday.

The match started on a slow note with both teams failing to string meaningful passes as they  struggled to create any goal scoring chances.

The home side, however, opened the scoring in the 23rd minute through Dzingai Chirambamuriwo after a well worked counter-attack.

Pint-sized captain Nhamo Lameck was the architect of this goal as his pass was well utilised by former Mufakose Secondary School High pupil Chirambamuriwo who pushed his effort from an acute angle past Tendai Hove.

“I think we played very well but we played to deep in the first half, we didn’t create a single shot at goal in the first half but we improved in the second half and we must thank our goalkeeper Tendai Hove for keeping us in the game but we must congratulate Triangle for taking their chance,” said ZPC Kariba team manager Oliver Mataba who was standing in for head coach Sunday Chidzambwa who is away with the national team for Cosafa Castle Cup in South Africa.

It was sweet victory for Triangle assistant coach Godfrey Tamirepi against his former side.

“Sweet victory indeed against my former side, ZPC Kariba, after a frustrating loss away from home against Harare City. We just hope the victory will give us the much-needed confidence going into the Tsholotsho match as we search for our first consecutive victories in the season,” said Tamirepi.

Sables’ captain Denford Mutamangira

Mehluli Sibanda, Senior Sports Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Sables top the Rugby Africa Gold Cup log after coming from behind to overpower Senegal 28-16 at the Stade Iba Mar Diop in Dakar on Saturday.

Zimbabwe trailed the West Africans 13-6 heading into the halftime break, with two Tichafara Makwanya penalty goals keeping them within reach.

Cyprian Mandenge’s men changed their game in the second half, which saw them scoring 22 points and conceding just three to shut out the Senegalese in front of their home crowd.

The first try for the Sables came from wing Takudzwa Kumadiro following a brilliant interchange of passes involving Connor Pritchard and Makwanya.

Another unconverted try by scrumhalf Hilton Mudariki put Zimbabwe 16-13 ahead, but Senegal booted in a penalty to make it 16-16.

Zimbabwe regained the lead with another unconverted try by Kumadiro as they went 21-16 ahead. Stephan Hunduza went over under the posts and Makwanya this time his conversion kick right to ensure the Sables of a hard earned victory.

With Kenya and Uganda involved in a 33-33 draw, the Sables, who also collected a bonus point from the win, are on top of the six- team log standings with five points. Next up for Zimbabwe is another away match against Namibia in Windhoek on July 15.

Sables
Denford Mutamangira, Tolerance Zishe, Lawrence Cleminson, Fortune Chipendu, Witness Mandizha, Connor Pritchard, Biselele Tshamala, Osborne Muhambi, Hilton Mudariki, Tichafara Makwanya, Lenience Tambwera, Ngoni Chibuwe, Takudzwa Kumadiro Tadius Dzandiwandira

Replacements: Graham Cochrane, Irvine Nduwa, Brian Nyaunde, Takudzwa Mandiwanza, Scott Jones, Tinashe Gwisai, Tarisai Mugariri

@Mdawini_29

CRISTIANO RONALDO expressed his delight at firing Portugal into the Confederations Cup semifinals after netting his 75th international goal in Saturday’s 4-0 thrashing of New Zealand.

“I’m very happy to be in the semifinals. We’re confident and want to win,” said Ronaldo, who picked up his third straight man-of-the-match award in Russia.

The 32-year-old has a court date in Madrid next month, accused by Spanish authorities of tax evasion, and the fallout has resulted in Ronaldo threatening to leave Real.

Despite the off-field turmoil and constant speculation about his future, the Portugal captain has dazzled on the pitch in Russia and scored two goals in three matches.

Ronaldo converted a 33rd-minute penalty to fire the Euro 2016 winners in front in Saint Petersburg before Bernardo Silva turned in a second goal four minutes later.

Andre Silva added a third on 80 minutes before Nani completed the rout in stoppage time to ensure Portugal finished above Mexico on goal difference.

“I thought we played well in many parts of the game; in others, not so well. Overall though, it was a fair victory,” said Portugal coach Fernando Santos.

Ronaldo’s latest goal sent him level with Hungary great Sandor Kocsis and to within nine of the legendary Ferenc Puskas’ European record of 84 at international level.

After demolishing New Zealand, Portugal progressed as Group A winners and will face the runners-up in Group B – likely Germany or Chile – next Wednesday in Kazan for a place in the July 2 final.

Mexico eliminated hosts Russia with a 2-1 win to join Portugal on seven points, with the Gold Cup winners to meet the second-placed side from Group B in the last four.

Hirving Lozano’s courageous second-half header sealed Mexico’s comeback victory over 10-man Russia in Kazan.

Hosts Russia took a deserved 25th-minute lead through Aleksandr Samedov, but Nestor Araujo equalised for Mexico with a looping header on the half hour.

Igor Akinfeev was then left embarrassed as Lozano nipped in front of the Russia goalkeeper to head in from the edge of the area on 52 minutes after a towering clearance caused chaos in the home defence.

Russia suffered a further blow when Yury Zhirkov was dismissed on 68 minutes and substitute Igor Smolnikov blazed over from close range with quarter of an hour remaining to compound their misery.

“We knew we were going to have a really tough game against a very strong side in the host nation, who simply had to go for the win,” said Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio.

“This is a big victory for Mexican football. I think we deserved to win and we’re delighted with the result and the performance of the team.”

For Russia it was their final competitive fixture ahead of next year’s World Cup, but coach Stanislav Cherchesov remained upbeat despite his side’s early exit.

“I’m confident that all the players who’ve taken part in the tournament will draw on the experience to develop and mature,” he said.

“Three quarters of the squad have never played at this level, and with new players coming through all the time I’m optimistic about the future.” — SuperSport

A LOOSE head restraint cost Lewis Hamilton victory in a chaotic and incident-packed Azerbaijan Grand Prix as Sebastian Vettel was penalised for driving into his title rival.

A remarkable race that featured three safety cars and several crashes, including clashes between team-mates, was won by Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo.

Hamilton’s Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who was last and lapped after the first lap, passed Williams driver Lance Stroll on the final straight as the 18-year-old Canadian scored his first podium in his eighth race after a mature drive.

The result was doubly bitter for Hamilton as he ended up finishing fifth, a place behind Ferrari’s Vettel, and losing ground in the championship despite dominating the race until his unusual problem.

Vettel was given a 10-second stop-go penalty for swerving into Hamilton’s Mercedes as they prepared for a re-start at the end of one of three safety car periods.

But the time Hamilton lost being forced to pit for a new head restraint put him behind Vettel. He followed him past a number of cars as they recovered positions, and closed up as the race entered its final lap, but the Englishman was not able to pass.

Hamilton lost two points to Vettel and is 14 points behind after eight of 21 races.

The controversial incident between Hamilton and Vettel happened as they prepared for the re-start after the second safety car period.

Vettel ran into the back of Hamilton as he accelerated out of Turn 15, the penultimate corner, damaging his front wing. The German then pulled alongside Hamilton’s Mercedes and drove into it, banging wheels.

Vettel told his team over the radio that he believed Hamilton had deliberately slowed, saying: “He brake-tested me. What the hell is going on?”

Hamilton told his Mercedes engineers: “Vettel literally just came alongside me and hit me.”

When he was told of the penalty, Vettel said: “Tell me when I did dangerous driving.” Ferrari told him they would discuss it after the race.

Hamilton said over the radio, addressing his remarks directly at race director Charlie Whiting, that he believed a 10-second penalty was “not enough for driving behaviour like that – you know that, Charlie.”

Before the stewards delivered their verdict on Vettel’s driving, Hamilton’s race had already fallen apart.

He had controlled it from the start, despite the chaos behind him, and was leading Vettel by 2.5 seconds after 28 of 51 laps when the cockpit head restraint padding that protects the drivers from impacts began to lift on the straight.

His race engineer asked him to try to push it back down again but he was unable to force it into position and Mercedes were ordered to pit Hamilton to fix a restraint into position.

He rejoined in eighth place and fought his way up past Esteban Ocon’s Force India, McLaren’s Fernando Alonso and Haas driver Kevin Magnussen before the end. — SuperSport

Nation Dube

Tobias Mandoreba in Hwange
Hwange 2 – 0 Shabanie Mine

HWANGE registered their first home win in the 2017 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League campaign when they dismissed Shabanie Mine in a pulsating encounter at the Colliery Stadium yesterday.

The win also marked the first time the coal miners scored a goal on home turf.

A well taken spot kick by the match’s outstanding player Justine Kaunda in the 34th minute and a second by substitute Tendai Mate in the 73th minute brought jubilation to the home fans when referee Bekezela Makeka blew to end the match.

Mate’s cushion goal in his debut match took him just eight minutes to score in Hwange colours and that quickly endeared him to the Chipangano faithful.

Mate was playing for ZRP Hwange in the First Division last season and came on for Morestuf Ncube in the 65th minute.

His goal will be remembered for a long time as it calmed the Hwange nerves at a time determined Shabanie were threatening to level matters.

The asbestos miners have themselves to blame for going back to Zvishavane empty-handed due to their wastefulness in front of goal.

In the ninth minute, Trevor Mavhunga’s curling volley whistled past the Hwange goalkeeper Taimon Mvula’s right upright, with the entire bench already celebrating.

Hwange’s first real raid on the Shabanie goal came in the 18th minute when striker Gilbert Zulu’s rasping shot hit the underside of the crossbar and back into play onto the path of Ncube, who headed over with a yawning net in front of him.

Hwange kept pressing and were awarded a penalty in the 34th minute after defender Admire Dzumbunu was adjudged to have handled Ncube’s goal bound effort.

The coalminers started the second half in the same pressing fashion and could have doubled their lead in the 63rd minute when Kaunda’s flashing header off a delicate cross from speedy midfielder Shepherd Gadzikwa was brilliantly tipped over the bar by Shabanie keeper, Samuel Mafukidze.

Mate was then introduced in the 65th minute and he immediately harassed the Shabanie rear-guard with his clever runs.

In the 73rd minute, Mate latched onto a pass from Kaunda and outpaced the Shabanie defenders before slotting home past the advancing Mafukidze.

Hwange coach, Nation Dube was over the moon after the game.

“I am a happy and can afford a long sleep today. Things are shaping up in the company as a whole and I am happy the boys responded with a memorable team effort. It gives encouragement going forward,” said Dube.

Shabanie coach Takesure Chiragwi bemoaned his team’s wasted Chances.

“In football you get punished if you don’t take your chances as we were supposed to blow Hwange away in the opening half. Penalties are part of the game, but I think the Hwange one was a bit soft. No excuses though, as we have to translate our good play into wins,” Chiragwi said.

Teams
Hwange: T Mvula; C Phiri; G Ndlovu; O Moyo; M Mekiwa; A Tshuma; S Gadzikwa; O Lungu ( A Banda 80th min); J Kaunda; M Ncube (T Ncube 65th min); G Zulu

Shabanie Mine: S Mafukidze; J Nyabinde; W Mapfumo; N Mpofu; A Dzumbunu; T Mavhunga; C Dhuwa; W Taderera (F Muza 70th min); D Chivandire; E Phiri( T Chigede 50th min); B Mtigo (T Chimoyo 80th min).

@tobymandox

Dynamos striker Denver Mukamba (right) in this file photo

Eddie Chikamhi, Senior Sports Reporter
Dynamos  4 – 3 Bulawayo City

DYNAMOS were in party mood again yesterday after they overcame their defensive jitters to record their fifth successive win in this high-scoring Castle Lager Premiership soccer match against Bulawayo City at the National Sports Stadium.

Stand-in skipper, Obey Mwerahari, Denver Mukamba, Christian Epoupa and defender Lincolin Zvasiya were on target as the Harare giants appear to have gathered momentum in the championship race after cutting short the gap between them and the top team to just two points with two games in hand.

However, the Glamour Boys’ assistant coach Biggie Zuze, who is holding the fort in the absence of Lloyd Mutasa currently away on national team duty, yesterday said they have to celebrate their success with eyes open following a poor defensive show that could have cost them big time on another day.

DeMbare’s rearguard was suspicious the whole match with goalkeeper Tonderayi Mateyaunga the main culprit as he gifted teenage double scorer Clive Rupiya with an easy goal in the seventh minute while substitute Bellington Damson also benefited from his indecisiveness for Bulawayo City’s third.

“Credit to the guys, they kept on fighting. But the only thing, I think we didn’t defend very well. You could see even their first goal was just a gift from the goalkeeper. These types of things happen in football.

“But I am happy we carried on. Scoring four goals and creating Chances is a plus for us and we are beginning to see a great Change in the team.

“The character is there, the fighting spirit is there and the mistakes these youngsters are making we are rectifying them and I think we will keep on working with these guys. For today, we are happy we’ve got the three points. I think that is what matters most,” said Zuze.

Despite the win, it was a bad day especially for Mateyaunga whose attempt to showcase his dribbling skills failed dismally when he received a back pass and tragically toyed with the ball in front of striker Rupiya.

The keeper complicated things for himself by making one touch too many as Rupiya closed in and successfully wrestled for possession before slotting the ball into an empty net.

Dynamos, however, were quick to bounce back with captain of the day Mwerahari heading home the equaliser from a free-kick by Peace Makaha on the wide right with the clock showing 10 minutes of play.

Mukamba, who appeared to be working hard to rediscover his form, then put DeMbare ahead with a low shot into the bottom corner when Bulawayo City defenders failed to clear their lines from a throw-in into the box by Carlos Rusere.

But Rupiya restored parity soon after the restart with DeMbare defenders flat-footed as the 18-year-old juggled the ball with his back to goal inside the box and still found time to shoot on the turn despite a cluster of blue and white shirts around him.

Cameroonian Epoupa, who has developed a niche for scoring special goals for Dynamos, was at it again yesterday with a classy shot from the tightest of angles after shielding his marker in a tussle for possession with 52 minutes played.

Zvasiya made it four for Dynamos with a first time shot on the edge of the box after Mukamba had kept substitute Phakamani Dube’s high ball in play.

Although midfielder Cleopas Kapupurika could not get his name on the scoresheet, the diminutive winger was the man to watch for DeMbare with his dribbling skills and pace down the wings.

But DeMbare had to endure the last 15 minutes of the game as their defensive frailties were exposed by City’s extensive wing play with goalkeeper Mateyaunga always on the edge. The visitors could have easily walked away with a point with a bit of luck and precision.

Bulawayo City coach Mandla Mpofu was pleased by the duel although losing three points was painful experience after such a spirited fight by his charges.

“I think when we came into this came obviously some quarters thought it was an easy assignment for Dynamos but I guess we had unbelievable performance from my team. As much as I do not like to talk about match officials but the first goal, that foul, he gave them. That’s my feeling.

“But again we conceded stupid goals that we could have avoided. Overall I’m trying to blend youth and experience, (and we had) two goals from Clive Rupiya an 18-year-old who I think is our next Khama Billiat.

“It’s a young team that I’m trying to build and our objective is to survive relegation. With such a performance today I think we are in the right direction. It’s not surprising that we lost to Dynamos but we gave them a good game.

“At one time we were pound-to–pound with Dynamos. I am not demoralised, I am not frustrated by this defeat but I am very pleased with the way we applied ourselves today under a lot of pressure, playing a team that has been on fire. But again seven goals in one game it’s just unbelievable.

“Of course losing three points at this stage is not good enough but the most important thing is to look forward and see how best we can approach the next game that is coming,” said Mpofu.

Still, Dynamos rose to fourth on the log standings with 26 points, two behind log leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars.

In fact, they could have been top of the table by end of day yesterday if their match against Chapungu had ended as it were last week after it was abandoned with the Harare giants leading 4-0 when a goalpost collapsed soon after the interval.

The Glamour Boys are still likely to make it six wins in a roll if the PSL Disciplinary Committee rule in their favour as Chapungu, the home team, have since been summoned to a hearing this Thursday facing charges of failing to provide a replacement goal.

Teams
Dynamos: T Mateyaunga P Makaha, C Rusere (P Dube, 41st min), L Zvasiya, M Machazane, T Chipunza, O Mwerahari, D Mukamba (T Macheke, 90th min), C Kapupurika (T Sadiki, 82nd min), E Mandiranga, C Epoupa.

Bulawayo City: A Ngwenya, M Kadzola (Z Ngodzo, 26th min), M Mungadze, N Mukumbi, Z Sibanda, K Madzongwe, I Kutsanzira, M Dube (D Maposa, 64th min) , T Ndlovu, C Rupiya, H Ncube (B Damson 74th min).

Highlanders defender Benson Phiri (right) blocks How Mine’s striker Toto banda from getting the ball in yesterday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday. (Picture by Almost Almond Mthembo)

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
How Mine 0 – 0 Highlanders

HOW Mine were unlucky to leave Barbourfields Stadium without maximum points, as they dominated Highlanders in yesterday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match.

The gold miners had superior ball possession, which they, however, failed to turn into goals.

So dominant were the gold miners that they had eight corner kicks compared to Bosso’s two, which came in the last 15 minutes of the game.

How Mine stuck to their game plan of denying their opponents the ball and whenever they lost possession, they were quick to press Highlanders, forcing them to pump long balls.

Kelvin Kaindu, the How Mine coach, bemoaned his team’s lack of potency in front of goal and felt that they lost two valuable points.

“We’ve dropped two valuable points considering that we had the lion’s share of the game. Our opponents only played the last 10 minutes of the game or so. I think with the performance we put, we deserved better. We stuck to our game plan, which was to deny them possession and controlled the game. All the same, a point is better than nothing,” said Kaindu.

The miners played Toto Banda upfront supported by Kuda Musharu and Timothy January, who were coming in the midfield.

Musharu and January formed a midfield quintet that also had anchorman Makundika Sakala, Peter Rio Moyo and Pasca Manhanga.

They were ably supported by overlapping left-back Milton Ncube and occasionally Frank Makarati, as they shut out the Bosso midfielders and even caused some anxious moments for their more illustrious opponents.

Highlanders clearly missed the services of playmaker Rahman Kutsanzira, who picked an injury in the build-up to the encounter, as well as young striker Prince Dube, who is with the Warriors’ squad at the Cosafa Cup in South Africa.

Bosso were virtually lifeless, with no creativity, as they spent the better part of the match on the back foot.

They managed to defend well and restrict How Mine to long-range attempts that rarely bothered goalkeeper Ariel Sibanda.

How Mine right-back Tsepo Ranthokoane brought the best out of Sibanda from a free-kick that took an awkward bounce, but the alert goalie somehow pushed the ball out for corner in the 52nd minute.

Minutes later January’s weak shot inside the penalty box went straight into Sibanda’s hands.

Just before the hour mark, Banda had a perfect opportunity to score for the miners after losing the defenders to meet a perfect January cross from the right, only to head wide with Sibanda at his mercy.

Highlanders only came out of their shell in the 78th minute when Simon Munawa sent in a cross that Ralph Matema met on the blind side only to be denied by the upright.

A minute later, the upright again came to How Mine’s rescue when centre-back Tendai Ndlovu’s cracker cannoned off into the woodwork.

The gold miners’ keeper Munyaradzi Diya produced the best save of the day when he denied Munawa from close range after being set through by Matema.

Bosso coach Erol Akbay conceded that How Mine were the better side and felt that lack of movement by his strikers and lack of creativity from the midfield cost them maximum points.

“How Mine made it difficult for us to play football as they were really pressing well. We only started to create Chances after 75 minutes. Too bad our strikers were not sharp enough; we were keeping the ball too long in the midfield and our strikers were also not making runs,” said Akbay.

Teams

How Mine: Munyaradzi Diya, Tsepo Ranthokoane, Milton Ncube, Kudzai Chideu, Frank Makarati, Makundika Sakala, Toto Banda, Pasca Manhanga (Tinashe Makanda, 89th minute), Peter Moyo (Brooklyn Banda, 83rd minute), Kuda Musharu, Timothy January

Highlanders: Ariel Sibanda, Bukhosi Ncube, Benson Phiri, Tendai Ndlovu, Peter Muduhwa, Erick Mudzingwa, Simon Munawa, Allen Gahadzikwa (King Nadolo, 63rd minute), Brian Banda (Gabriel Nyoni, 75th minute), Rodreck Mutuma (Godfrey Makaruse, 46th minute), Ralph Matema

Results

Saturday: Chicken Inn 0-0 Ngezi Platinum, FC Platinum 1-0 Tsholotsho FC
Yesterday: How Mine 0-0 Highlanders, Bantu Rovers 0-1 Chapungu, Triangle United 1-0 ZPC Kariba, Hwange 2-0 Shabanie Mine, Black Rhinos 1-2 Harare City, Dynamos 4-3 Bulawayo City

Fixture
Tomorrow: Yadah FC v Caps United (Morris Depot)

@ZililoR

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
VICTORIA Falls Tigers finally registered their first win of the season by edging Southern Region Division One League debutants Chiwororo 1-0 in the resort town on Saturday.

A goal by 19-year-old former Young Warriors striker Trust Maseko powered Tigers to their first set of maximum points in their ninth attempt of the season.

The win lifted Tigers up from the bottom of the table into 12th place of the 14-team league with six points from nine games.

Mehluli Moyo, Tigers’ coach, believes the win over Chiwororo was a confidence booster for his young squad.

“It hasn’t been easy because the young squad we have took time to gel after we lost a number of seasoned players at the beginning of the year. They are starting to adapt and I’m sure the boys now have confidence following this win. We have to keep on working hard and make sure we build from this win,” said Moyo.

Tigers lost attacking midfielder Shepard Gadzikwa to Premiership side Hwange, midfielder and former captain Quit Ndlovu, striker Carlos Dube, defender Oscar Chove, goalkeeper Darlington Matta and attacking midfielder Godknows Sibanda to cross town rivals Amagagasi.

The players that now form their backbone include central defender Simba Mpofu, ex-Trumus and Amagagasi defender Warrit Siwela and the midfield trio of Harrington Kapinuka, Melikhaya Ncube and John Chinyerere.

Chiwororo are now second from the bottom of the table with five points from eight games, a point above basement side Amagagasi, who were inactive at the weekend.

Despite being lowly placed, Chiwororo are confident of climbing up the ladder out of the relegation zone.

“We’re playing well, but lack of experience in our side is costing us. As for relegation, we won’t go down. We just need a couple of experienced players to steady our ship while the youngsters we brought into First Division with get experience. The youngsters also need to understand that we’re now in a different level, change mindset and work harder than what we’ve been doing if we’re to start collecting points,” said Morris Mukwiti, Chiwororo’s coach.

While Chiwororo were left licking their wounds after the weekend games, Zim Leopards, who are also in their debut season in Division One, pulled a shocker, beating Talen Vision 2-1 at White City Stadium.

Leopards got their goals from Marvin Dube and Michael Bhebhe, while Vision, who probably underrated their opponents, scored their consolation through Mongameli Ndlovu.

Leopards moved a place up the ladder to ninth place tied on 11 points with eighth-placed Indlovu Iyanyathela.

Bosso 90 made a giant leap up the table from sixth to third with 16 points following a 3-2 win over Black Boots. Highlanders’ development side scored through Muziwakhe Dlamini, Thabo Lunga and Xolani Mdlongwa, while Tendai Zaza scored a brace for Black Boots.

Meanwhile, leaders Bulawayo Chiefs extended their unbeaten run to 11 games, after winning their 10th game of the season by dismissing Casmyn 2-0.

Adrian Banana, who returned from a trial stint in Tanzania, and Fortune Nkomazana scored for Chiefs, as they opened a 14-point lead over second placed ZRP Bulawayo, who have two games in hand.

Results

Saturday: ZPC Hwange 1-1 Makomo, Victoria Falls Tigers 1-0 Chiwororo, Bosso 90 3-2 Black Boots, Zim Leopards 2-1 Talen Vision, Indlovu Iyanyathela v Amagagasi (postponed)
Sunday: Bulawayo Chiefs 2-0 Casmyn

Table

P    W    D    L    F    A    GD    Pts
Bulawayo Chiefs    11    10    1    0    22    2    20    31
ZRP Bulawayo    9    4    5    0    13    4    9    17
Bosso 90    9    4    4    1    11    9    2    16
ZPC Hwange    8    4    3    1    10    3    7    15
Casmyn    10    4    3    3    13    8    5    15
Talen Vision    11    3    5    3    9    7    2    14
Makomo    9    3    3    3    9    11    -2    12
Indlovu Iyanyathela    8    3    2    3    12    9    3    11
Zim Leopards    10    2    5    3    17    16    1    11
Mosi Rovers    10    2    3    5    8    18    -10    9
Black Boots    9    1    4    4    9    21    -12    7
Victoria Falls Tigers    9    1    3    5    4    15    -11    6
Chiwororo    8    1    2    5    10    15    -5    5
Amagagasi    8    1    1    6    4    12    -8    4

@ZililoR

Tobias Mandoreba in Hwange
DETE-based side Hotspurs Leopards produced a sparkling home performance to thrash Hwange Reserves 4-2 at a packed Raylton ground to top the Zifa Mat North Division 2A League.

Those doubting Leopards’ ability to bring Division One football to Dete for the first time ever should have been in Dete to witness coach Ashley Ndebele’s side blowing away the Chipangano developmental team, which had gone on a seven match winning streak.

Denzel Kutadza’s brace and a goal apiece by Tafadzwa Nkomo and Raymond Sibanda did the damage, while Tonderai Songore and Raymond Sibanda were on target for the visitors.

Moto Moto eased back into second position after edging struggling Ingagula 1-0 at their Chakona base courtesy of a goal by Nkosiyazi Sibanda.

Blackrock fired blanks against OT Lions Academy in a goalless draw at Lwendulu Old ground and dropped from leading the table into third place, despite remaining the only unbeaten team in the league.

Baobab Rovers kept their hopes alive with a 4-0 thumping of Flying Elephants, thanks to goals from Dion Nyoni, Abel Ncube, Raymond Dube and Mkholeli Nhliziyo.

Tawanda Tekiwa scored a brace and Khonzani Nkomo added a third as Classic Luyando hammered visiting Dete-based Iwisa Sparrows 3-0 at Chinotimba ground.

A tense Victoria Falls derby saw Trumus Warriors edging Amagagasi Under-19 1-0 at Chinotimba ground.

Lukosi Pirates and Corinthians played to a goalless draw at Lukosi ground to complete the weekend action’s action.

Zifa Mat North Division 2A table

P    W    D    L    GF    GA    GD    PTS
Hotspurs Leopards     9    6    2    1    15    7    8    20
Motomoto     9    6    1    2    17    6    11    19
Blackrock     9    5    4    0    15    7    8    19
Baobab Rovers     9    5    2    2    16    5    11    17
Hwange Reserves     9    5    2    2    18    13    5    17
Classic Luyando     9    4    2    3    20    13    7    14
Trumus Warriors     8    4    2    2    13    8    5    14
Iwisa Sparrows     8    4    2    2    12    10    2    14
Shumba Stars     9    4    1    4    12    13    -1    13
Lukosi Pirates     8    3    2    3    11    10    1    11
Nengasha Stars     8    2    4    2    9    9    0    10
OT Lions Academy     9    1    5    3    11    10    1    8
Ingagula     9    2    0    7    9    16    -7    6
Flying Elephants     8    1    2    5    9    22    13    5
Amagagasi U19     8    1    0    7    7    19    -12    3
Corinthians     9    0    1    8    2    28    -26    1

@tobymandox

El Hadji Diouf (left) has reignited his long running feud with former Liverpool teammate

Controversial ex-Senegalese international El Hadji Diouf on Monday reignited his long running feud with former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard by declaring the England icon was a failure for his country.

Diouf, who spent an unsuccessful spell at Liverpool which prompted Gerrard to criticise him in his autobiography 10 years ago and sparked the war of words, told the BBC Gerrard was a very good player, but for his club not his country.

The two-time African Footballer of the Year, who then spent further mediocre spells with other British clubs like Leeds United, Rangers and Bolton, said, by comparison, he is “Mr Senegal”.

“I have no problem with him. He is a strong character and I am a strong character,” the 36-year-old said.

“‘Stevie G’ was a very good player. People like him in Liverpool, but he never did anything for his country.

“I am Mr El Hadji Diouf, Mr Senegal, but he is Mr Liverpool and Senegal is bigger than Liverpool and he has to know that,” added Diouf, who was a member of the Senegal side that reached the 2002 World Cup quarter-finals but also was banned by his own federation for five years in 2011, although that was later reduced.

The feud between Diouf and Gerrard began when the latter, who was capped 114 times but never won a trophy, wrote that he “wasn’t Diouf’s number 1 fan”.

“I knew which players were hungry, which players had Liverpool at heart. Diouf was just interested in himself. His attitude was all wrong,” said Gerrard. — AFP.