Arsenal’s new manager Unai Emery

LONDON — Arsenal head coach Unai Emery has pledged to carry on Arsene Wenger’s legacy of attacking football and insists the club can fight for titles right away next season even without a major overhaul of the squad.

Emery, a native of Spain, was introduced at the Emirates yesterday and insisted upon speaking English for most of his news conference as he outlined his vision for the club.

Asked what his targets are for next season, Emery, who just led Paris Saint-Germain to a domestic treble, said development is most important.

“But how do you develop?” he said. “I think that’s about battling for every title. That’s something that is in Arsenal’s history and it’s in my history as well.

And I want that to continue. Our objective is to win titles and to be among the best teams in Europe. I also want to make the fans proud of the team. I know they already are, but I want them to continue to be.”

Emery did not disclose what his plans are for the Arsenal squad in terms of transfers, but said that “all the players, for me, that I want” will remain with the team.

“But I want to speak individually with all the players, and speak with them face to face,” he said. “I believe in the players who are here. I think we can [develop] with these players, and the objective is to work hard together with these talented players.”

He also said he wants to keep the same brand of attacking football that was Arsenal’s hallmark under Wenger — but hinted that he’ll demand more pressing without the ball from his players.

“My ideal is to be the protagonist in all the match,” Emery said. “We will play against all teams with this personality. I think the history here is one thing — they love playing with possession of the ball.

“I like this personality — I like being the protagonist with the ball. And when you don’t have possession of the ball, I want a very squad that is very, very intensive with the pressure. It’s very important for me to be protagonist with the ball and pressing when you don’t have the ball.”

Meanwhile, There’s an old cliche which says when managers change clubs they go for the opposite to what they had before. You swap your long ball merchant for the tiki-taka enthusiast; exchange your folksy, arm-around-shoulder guy for some dour, unsmiling drill sergeant.

On the surface, this is the road Arsenal have gone down in appointing Unai Emery.

Arsene Wenger was the omnipotent, omniscient (“Arsene knows”) visionary with a clear idea of how he wanted to play and, sometimes, especially in latter years, a somewhat fuzzy execution.

Emery is the pragmatist, the guy who makes do with what he has (and he’s had both very little and plenty of riches during his career), who genuinely wants you to like him and builds support that way. Systems, formations and philosophies are a means to an end, not a goal unto themselves. If he has an ego, it’s buried deep, somewhere next to his vanity.—ESPNFC.

Mark Harrison

Tadious Manyepo, Harare Bureau
Harare City  2 – 1 Shabanie

HARARE City coach Mark Harrison hailed his charges’ polished second-half performance after they eased their way into third place with a victory over a battling Shabanie in a Castle Lager Premiership match at Rufaro yesterday.

Rare starter Wilfred Muvirimi opened the scoring seven minutes after the restart and Nyasha Mpofu turned a Tatenda Tumba looping free-kick into his own nets seven minutes later.

David Temwanjira scored Shabanie’s consolation 10 minutes from time.

“We were a little bit tired today. We played a tough game in Bulawayo last weekend and today we didn’t play well, especially in the first half, where we were a bit lethargic,” said Harrison.

“We were not ourselves in the first 45 minutes.

“We didn’t make much penetration. We tried to change it in the second half and the boys responded well and in the end we were supposed to have scored four or five goals.  But, overall, I am happy we managed to get all the three points,” said Harrison.

The Sunshine Boys, who have lost just once in 13 matches, were full value for the win as they dominated play, especially in midfield where Tumba’s incredible work ethic, Moses Muchenje’s penetrative runs and Tendai Samanja’s passing accuracy proved priceless.

They could, and should, have won by a bigger margin had Protasho Kabwe, William Manondo and Muvirimi not forgotten their shooting boots.

The visitors had their chances with Temwanjira causing some nervous moments to the Harare City central defensive pairing of Raymond Uchena and Munyaradzi Diro-Nyenye.

‘’The first goal, I don’t know what happened to the defenders. They went to sleep and allowed Harare City to score in a four-versus-one scenario,’’ said Shabanie coach Takesure Chiragwi.

“The second was an own goal. Tough luck. We look forward to a better outing in the next match.’’

Teams
Harare City: R Harrison, R Uchena,T Chimwemwe, B Chayambuka, M Diro-Nyenye, T Samanja, M Muchenje, T Tumba (D Chemwemwe 89th min) W Muvirimi, P Kabwe (P Kabwe 46th min) M Gaki (M Vengesai 65th min)

Shabanie: B Temera, L Manyande (E Kuwayuja 81st min)B Mukundu, N Mpofu, T Chigede, J Nyabinde, C Rusere (R Kawondera 72nd min) T Mupumha (K Dhlamini 71st min), M Murimi, D Temwajira, T Makuwe

AB de Villiers

Proteas batsman, AB de Villiers, yesterday announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket with immediate effect.

De Villiers bows out of international cricket as one of the greatest players to have represented South Africa, having played 114 tests, 228 one-day internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals.

The 34-year-old says ‘the time is right’ for him to hang up his boots, bringing a close to a sterling 14-year career.

“I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect,” he said yesterday. “After 114 test matches, 228 ODI’s and 78 T20 Internationals, it is time for others to take over. I have had my turn, and to be honest, I am tired.

“This is a tough decision, I have thought long and hard about it and I’d like to retire while still playing decent cricket. After the fantastic series wins against India and Australia, now feels like the right time to step aside.

“It would not be right for me to pick and choose where, when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in the green and gold, it must be everything or nothing. I will always be grateful to the coaches and staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years.

“The most important thank you goes out to all of my teammates throughout my career, I wouldn’t be half the player that I am without the support throughout the years.

“It’s not about earning more somewhere else, it’s about running out of gas and feeling that it is the right time to move on. Everything comes to an end. To the cricket fans around South Africa and the World, thank you for your kindness and generosity, and today, for your understanding.

“I have no plans to play overseas, in fact, I hope I can continue to be available for the Titans in domestic cricket. I will continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas.”

His records and statistics are a true measure of the skill and brilliance he brought to the crease. He holds a phenomenal number of milestones to his name; the World Record for the fastest ODI 50 (16 balls), 100 (31 balls) and 150 (64 balls), the second highest individual test score for South Africa (278*), the highest points (935) by a South African on the ICC test rankings and has claimed the coveted SA Cricketer of the Year award twice (2014 and 2015).

He retires with an incredible test average of 50.66 and as the fourth-highest run-scorer for South Africa with 8765 runs (22 100’s). His exploits in the limited-overs formats have been extraordinary, and he finishes as the No 2 ranked player in the world and as the second highest run-scorer behind Jacques Kallis with 9577 runs at an average of 53.50.

Cricket South Africa President, Chris Nenzani said: “AB is one of the all-time greats of South African cricket who has thrilled spectators around the world with his sheer brilliance, coupled to his ability to innovate and take modern-day batting in all three formats but particularly in the white ball ones to new levels. What is probably more important is the inspiration he has been to his teammates whether playing at international or domestic level and the wonderful role model he has been to all our aspiring youngsters. It goes without saying that he is going to be greatly missed wherever international cricket is played.”— Supersport.

John Zhuwawu

Eddie Chikamhi, Harare Bureau
Caps  United  3 – 0 ZPC Kariba

STRIKER John Zhuwawu brought smiles back on the Caps United faithful when he inspired the Green Machine to their biggest win this year with a brace against ZPC Kariba in a Castle Lager Premiership match at the National Sports Stadium yesterday.

Makepekepe, who had not won in their last four outings, bounced back in style with Zhuwawu opening the account on the 25th minute and then spicing up a good afternoon for himself with a well-taken goal in the 78th minute.

The forward was also involved in the team’s second goal when he won a penalty midway through the second half which was buried by half-time substitute Denver Mukamba in the 68th minute.

“I am very satisfied. I think this is probably the first match that we have scored three goals (at home this year),’’ coach Lloyd Chitembwe said.

“I am also very happy with the fact that we did not concede and we have gone two games for that matter after we made some changes.

“Overall, I think there is still a lot of work to be done though. We feel there are still some areas that we really want to improve on.

Lloyd Chitembwe

“But I am very happy for the guys. They are giving us more of what we expected. In the last few games our desire, our hunger did not match the expectations, so from that angle as a coach you really get impressed.’’

Caps United and ZPC Kariba took long to settle in the game but things began shaping up for the hosts when Nhivi made a good run on the left flank and released a low cross that was met by Zhuwawu first time for the opening goal.

However, ZPC Kariba could have equalised on the half hour mark but Caps United goalkeeper Prosper Utseya palmed away Samuel Makawa’s goal-bound chip when he was way out of the box.

The goalkeeper escaped with a caution but that was a chance lost to the visitors.

ZPC Kariba’s hopes were extinguished when defender Sylvester Appiah was penalised for a challenge on Zhuwawu in a tussle for the ball.

Mukamba, who replaced Joel Ngodzo at half-time, stepped up and beat the keeper Takabva Mawaya from the spot much to ignite scenes of delirium in the stands in the 69th minute.

Mukamba dashed to the Caps United fans and led the celebrations with the trademark “zora-butter” dance and then ended up kissing the Caps United badge on his shirt.

Zhuwawu, who now has four goals under this belt this season, showed good technique when he received the ball just inside the box under close attention from the defenders and still found the space to send a grounder into the bottom corner.

Substitute Peter “Rio’’ Moyo then turned it into an exhibition with his fine passes and movement.

Makepekepe moved one place up the ladder to sixth on the log standings with 20 points while ZPC Kariba, who are reported to be eyeing Lloyd Mutasa to take over as their coach, continued to sing the blues in the bottom half.

ZPC Kariba coach Godfrey Tamirepi was distraught after his side, unbeaten in the previous eight games, had appeared to be making some gains following a slow start this year.

“This is one game that I would quickly want to forget about because we have played better opposition than Caps United and have gone to do well.

“Unfortunately, today it was something else. Our guys never come to the party, we were too slow. We couldn’t keep the ball and we actually gave the game to a team that was resorting to kick-and-rush football and we were punished.’’

Teams
Caps Utd: P. Chigumba, C. Munzabwa, V. Musarurwa, J. Jangano, G. Goriyati, D. Mukandi, K. Nyamupfukudza, J. Ngodzo (D. Mukamba, 47th min), M. Ncube, J. Zhuwawu (B. Muzondiwa, 79th min), S. Nhivi (P. Moyo, 66th min).

ZPC Kariba: T. Mawaya, B. Zuberi, M. Kunyarimwe (B. Nyamuzihwa, 72nd min), S. Appiah, I. Nekati, T. Munyanduri, C. Muleya, P. Tafirenyika (S. Gorogodyo, 49th min), S. Makawa (M. Demera, 42nd min), T. Nyamandwe, T. Chamboko.

Highlanders’ Godfrey Makaruse battles with Carlton Munzabwa for possession (file pic)

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
BULAWAYO giants Highlanders’ continue to set records and standards in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League after 11 954 fans paid to watch their home tie against Caps United in what is believed to be the largest crowd attendance in all PSL games this season.

The club said $39 534 was realised from the turnstiles, but a large chunk went to various silent stakeholders, who include the PSL, Zifa, Sports and Recreation Commission, Bulawayo City Council, the police and private security, among others.

“As a club we only got 47 percent of the total figure ($18 580,98). We spend so much time marketing the game, but the proceeds are shared by other silent arms,” said Highlanders’ chief executive officer Nhlanhla Dube.

He said they believed the club is on the right trajectory, declaring that Bosso had been resurrected.

“We have started to earn our place in the sun and we want to thank our fans for heeding our call to fill up Emagumeni, as we continue to set standards that will be followed by everyone. We will continue trying to get better and hope that at the end of the year, we won’t have had a public spat or dispute with anyone; our fans have been awesome,” Dube said.

At this rate, Bosso are fast becoming the cash cow of the much maligned silent stakeholders, most of whom continue to reap where they have not sown, at the expense of the clubs.

Bosso take on Bulawayo City at Barbourfields this afternoon and these stakeholders will be hoping the attendance surpasses last Sunday’s for them to get a fatter cheque.

The fans have responded positively to the Bulawayo giants’ appeal to attend their home games in large numbers, but sadly performances on the pitch have failed to meet the crowds’ expectations, particularly in the last four home matches.

Bosso are third on the league table with 22 points, 10 behind runaway log leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars.

Madinda Ndlovu

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
HIGHLANDERS’ coach Madinda Ndlovu believes today’s derby against Bulawayo City came too soon, as he feels both sides haven’t had enough time to prepare for a game of this magnitude, while his City counterpart Amini Soma-Phiri said Bosso’s 12th man will be key to the final outcome.

The two coaches, both sons of the Bulawayo giants, face off this afternoon against the backdrop of dropped points in their last outings. Soma-Phiri’s Bulawayo City were hammered 0-4 by runaway leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars at Baobab Stadium in Mhondoro, while Ndlovu’s Bosso drew 0-0 at home with Caps United.

Highlanders have gone for three consecutive games without a win, managing just a single goal in the process and Ndlovu said today’s encounter will not present them with an easy afternoon as City had a good technical team.

“The derby came too soon. I don’t think both teams had enough time to prepare well, especially looking at the fact that it’s a derby. We will live up to our last performance; rely much on that as we go into this game. Let me say that we are playing a team which is hungry for results; a team that can do     anything to get that result. It’s a team that has a new coach, ambitious for that matter, a son of Highlanders who is assisted by another equally good young man. Amini is a very good coach with a very intelligent young man assisting him so we will be very careful in how we approach the game. We will approach it with a lot of caution and make sure we catch them where we can, but it won’t be easy,” said Ndlovu yesterday.

Speaking at an earlier media briefing at his Tower Block offices, Soma-Phiri said they have to be careful about how they tread, as Highlanders are most certainly going to be backed by a huge crowd.

“All we have to do to be careful about it. The team that we are playing against has a muscle behind them, meaning they have got the 12th person, but we are not afraid of that because of the preparations. If the boys do what they have been told by the technical department, I don’t see any problems,” said Soma-Phiri.

Highlanders are likely to welcome back Bukhosi Ncube, who has been out through injury.

Tonderai Ndiraya

Mukudzei Chingwere in GWERU
Chapungu 0 -1  Ngezi Platinum Stars

NGEZI PLATINUM continued to turn the screws on defending champions, FC Platinum, after they passed another tough test which saw them taking a six-point lead at the top of the Castle Lager Premiership table.

FC Platinum coach, Norman Mapeza, has repeatedly told the press that playing after Ngezi puts his miners under pressure if their rivals win a day before they plunge into action.

Yesterday’s message from Ascot to Mapeza was clear, “Catch us if you can?’’

Mapeza’s men host provincial rivals Nichrut this afternoon.

Over the weekend the defending champions’ response was perfect when they humbled giants Dynamos 2-0.

Yesterday it was speedy and exciting winger Michael Charamba who rose from the bench to assist Walter Mukanga’s only goal of the match.

The early pacesetters came into the match being the only team in the division yet to lose a league match but their unbeaten run was under scrutiny against a side they have never beaten at Ascot.

Ngezi coach Tonderai Ndiraya was a happy man at the final whistle.

“It’s a long journey but I think we are on track and I am quite excited by the way we got the result today,’’ said Ndiraya.

‘’It has been a long time since we defeated Chapungu here, it is always a difficult journey to come here but I am glad today we got the points which is what is important.

“We are marching on, we got three points today and, like I have always said, we will apply that rule of taking the next challenge against Harare City, which is quite a tough match and I hope we will be up to the task.

“We did not play the way we usually play, in the first half we were really not ourselves, we did not get the creativity we wanted, especially in the final third.

“Michael seems to be our impact player these days and he came and did the job we wanted, taking the ball behind the defence.’’

The visitors created a few chances in the opening half and played largely   second fiddle to the hosts who created better chances.

Chapungu had the best chance to break the deadlock before the breather but Bruno Mtigo’s shot crashed against the woodwork on the stroke of half-time.

After the breather former Caps United captain Tapuwa Kumbuyani was denied a second goal in two matches when his free kick was pushed away by impressive goalkeeper Bernard Donovan.

Ten minutes into the second half Chapungu thought they had won a penalty after Ngezi skipper, Liberty Chakoroma, handled Ricky Bota’s cross but the referee ruled the incident happened outside the box.

“No one wants to come and watch bad football, we have to instill confidence in the players that they have to knock the ball around with rhythm,’’ said Chapungu coach Rodwell Dhlakama.

“It was just a lapse in concentration but in terms of pound for pound we managed to match them, we were better in terms of both defending and attacking.

“We created good chances and otherwise a draw was the best result.’’

Teams:
Chapungu: T Shumba , E Chitauro, R Bota, B Mbavarira, M Moenda, E Muzanenhamo (C Kwaramba 67th min), M Mavuto ( B Sahondo75th min) ,B Mtigo (B Sibanda 77th min), A Tavarwisa, T Kumbuyani, B Mugoni

Ngezi Platinum: B Donavan, K Bulaji, L Chakoroma, K Murera, J Nguluve (C Augusto 64th min), T Dzukamanja      (G Murwira 85th min), D Teguru ( M Charamba 64th min), W Mukanga, M Mushonga, F Makarati, T Chipunza

Joey Antipas

Innocent Kurira, Sports Reporter
Bulawayo Chiefs 0-2 Chicken Inn

CHICKEN Inn cruised to a comfortable win over an out of sorts Bulawayo Chiefs in yesterday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Luveve Stadium.

The defeat was Chiefs’ fifth straight loss since they upset champions FC Platinum 2-0 a month ago.

Chicken Inn went into the game desperately seeking a win after playing to two consecutive draws against Chapungu and Harare City.

The GameCocks started the game on the front foot and opened the scoring 11 minutes into the game through a powerful header by Guide Goddard.

The veteran defender rose above the rest to power home a well taken Xolani Ndlovu corner kick, beating Kelvin Nyoni in goal for Chiefs.

Obriel Chirinda doubled the GameCocks’ lead in the 26th minute by cleverly connecting a neat pass from veteran Clemence Matawu.

Chicken dominated the entire first half, with Chiefs failing to come to the party.

Chirinda almost grabbed a brace just moments after the break, but his left footed shot hit the upright following a great run from the middle of the park.

Chiefs introduced striker Farau Matare in the 49th minute, which gave some life to the Chiefs’ attack, as he gave the Chicken Inn central defensive duo of Goddard and Moses Jackson some anxious moments with his pace.

But that’s all he could do, as Chiefs would find no breakthrough.

Their real opportunity fell to midfielder-cum striker Moses Majika in the 51st minute, but his low effort from inside the box was cleared off the line by Devine Lunga.

Chirinda then wasted a glorious chance to increase Chicken Inn’s tally in the 53rd minute when he skied his effort from six yards out after dribbling past the Chiefs’ defenders.

Chicken Inn introduced the defensive duo of Ben Nyahunzvi and Thabani Goredema to shut out any further threats from Chiefs.

Chicken Inn coach Joey Antipas was happy with the result.

“It’s a good result for us coming from two draws. We played well in the first half, great interchanges from the boys and we managed to get all our goals in that stanza. In the second half we lost it a bit and Chiefs came out guns blazing and in the end we had to grind out the result,” said Antipas.

His opposite number Garthly Chipuka felt his charges were not psychologically up to the task.

“l think this was a game where experience proved crucial. We tried hard to play our usual game, but Chicken Inn used their experience to shut us out. The game was more of a psychological battle for the boys. As a coach, you can work on the tactics and everything, but the boys need to be psychologically up to the task,” said Chipuka.

Teams
Bulawayo Chiefs: Kelvin Nyoni, Malvin Mkolo, Polite Moyo, Last Sithole, Takunda Muzuva, Clement Makamba (Farawo Matare 49 min), Arthur Musiyiwa (Crispen Machisi 71st min), Brighton Manhire (Gracious Mleya 59th min), Perfect Chikwende, Moses Majika,

Chicken Inn FC: Elvis Chipezeze, Passmore Bernard (Ben Nyahunzvi 49th min), Divine Lunga, Guide Goddard, Moses Jackson, Innocent Muchaneka (Wellighton Kamudyariwa 59th min), Simon Munawa, Clemence Matawu, Xolani Ndlovu (Thabani Goredema 74th min), Obriel Chirinda, Obidiah Tarumbwa,

Results
Caps United FC 3-0 ZPC Kariba, Chapungu 0-1 Ngezi Platinum Stars, Harare City 2-1 Shabanie Mine, Bulawayo Chiefs 0-2 Chicken Inn

Today’s Fixtures
Herentals v Triangle, Yadah v Mutare City, Bulawayo City v Highlanders, Black Rhinos v Dynamos, FC Platinum v Nichrut

@innocentskizoe

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
MOTO Moto striker Tatenda Ushe leads the race for the Southern Region Division One League’s Nokel Security Top Goal Scorer award for May with three goals going into the last match of the month.

Ushe, whose team takes on title chasing Makomo this afternoon in a Hwange derby, will be hoping to score. He will have to dig into his bag of tricks as Makomo, who are third on the table with 13 points, two behind leaders Tsholotsho, are keen to get maximum points to keep up with the top sides.

Grey Kufandada of Talen Vision won the April gong after scoring four goals.

Other players that are in the running for the May leading marksman award are Zim Leopards’ Marlvin Dube, former Chicken Inn striker Thomas Chimenya, who now turns out for ZPC Hwange, and Zibusiso Dambo of ZRP Bulawayo. The trio has two goals each.

Leopards are second from the bottom of the table and take on NRZ Leopards at Luveve Stadium this afternoon, with Dube expected to lead their search for their second win of the season, while Dambo’s ZRP Bulawayo are away to Main Line in Plumtree.

Chimenya will lead ZPC Hwange’s strike force when they take on winless new boys Toronto at Luveve Stadium.

Meanwhile, leaders Tsholotsho face tricky Indlovu Iyanyathela at Mzilikazi Barracks (formerly known as Brady Barracks). Indlovu Iyanyathela are coming from a 0-2 away loss to Mosi Rovers in Victoria Falls and will be hoping to hand Tsholotsho their first defeat of the season.

A fortnight ago, Indlovu Iyanyathela beat ZPC Hwange at Mzilikazi Barracks and Tsholotsho have to be cautious in their approach.

Second-placed Hwange will be at home to Talen Vision tomorrow.

Week 8 Fixtures
Today: Casmyn v Mosi Rovers (Turk Mine), Indlovu Iyanyathela v Tsholotsho (Mzilikazi Barracks), CIWU v Bosso 90 (Crescent,12PM), Main Line v ZRP Bulawayo (Plumtree), Toronto v ZPC Hwange (Luveve), Makomo v Moto Moto (Hwange), Zim Leopards v NRZ Leopards (Luveve, 12PM)
Tomorrow: Hwange v Talen Vision (Hwange, 12PM)
— @ZililoR

Biggest win in Cosafa Cup: Zambia 4-0 Malawi (19 April 1997)

Biggest defeat in Cosafa Cup: Zimbabwe 3-1 Zambia (1 November 2009); Zambia 1-3 Zimbabwe (9 July 2017)

Leading scorer in Cosafa Cup: Collins Mbesuma 5 goals

History summary: Zambia won both of the first two editions of the Cosafa Cup, but it took until 2006 for them to claim their third regional title, after which they added a fourth in 2013.

They have a formidable record, having lost just eight times in 52 Cosafa Cup appearances, not counting defeat in post-match penalty shootouts.

They have also reached nine finals in all, making their conversion rate of four trophy wins slightly disappointing by the high standards the country sets for itself.

It was the annual Southern African championship that in 1999 forced Zambia to give up their 15-year unbeaten record at Lusaka’s Independence Stadium when Angola surprised them in the semi-final.

The same happened again in 2001, albeit only after a post-match penalty shootout and again in the 2004 final.

Zambia’s first two Cosafa Cup victories were achieved away from home, drawing in Windhoek with Namibia in 1997 to win the mini-league and beating Zimbabwe in Harare a year later. Their triumph in 2006 was, however, in front of their own fans in Lusaka.

In 2007 they lost on penalties to South Africa, while the South African President’s XI knocked them out of the competition in the semi-finals in 2008.

They were finalists in 2009 in Zimbabwe, but ended up losing the decider 3-1 to their hosts, before getting revenge two years later when they defeated the Warriors 2-0 in the final.

Zambia reached the final again in 2017, but once more lost to Zimbabwe, also by a 3-1 score line.

Cosafa Cup finishes
1997 – Winners
1998 – Winners
1999 – Semi-finals
2000 – Quarter-finals
2001 – Quarter-finals
2002 – Semi-finals
2003 – Semi-finals
2004 – Runners-up
2005 – Runners-up
2006 – Winners
2007 – Runners-up
2008 – Semi-finals
2009 – Runners-up
2013 – Winners
2015 – Quarter-finals
2016– Quarter-finals
2017 – Runners-up
Cosafa Cup result record
P    W    D    L    F    A
Home        19    13    5    1    36    10
Away        33    14    12    7    40    25
Total        52    27    17    8    76    35
vs Angola        5    1    3    1    4    3
vs Botswana        3    3    0    0    6    1
vs Ghana        1    1    0    0    3    0
vs Lesotho        4    3    1    0    7    3
vs Madagascar        1    1    0    0    2    0
vs Malawi        7    4    1    2    11    5
vs Mauritius        1    1    0    0    3    1
vs Mozambique        8    7    1    0    19    5
vs Namibia        5    1    3    1    3    3
vs Seychelles        1    1    0    0    2    0
vs South Africa        3    0    3    0    2    2
vs South Africa Pres XI        1    0    0    1    0    1
vs Swaziland        3    1    2    0    3    0
vs Tanzania        2    1    1    0    6    4
vs Zimbabwe        7    2    2    3    5    7
— Cosafa

Takudzwa Chitsiga, Harare Bureau
Herentals 1 – 0 Triangle
HERENTALS remembered how to win when they edged struggling Triangle in a Castle Lager Premiership game at the National Sports Stadium yesterday.

The students were coming from back-to-back draws against Rhinos and Mutare City Rovers.

Triangle have been struggling of late after a bright start.

Herentals coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva said he was a relieved man after the victory.

“I am very happy with this win, it was high time we collected maximum points,’’ said Mutiwekuziva.

‘’The guys now have self-belief and l think they will do well in our coming games. We look forward to our next matches and I think the win will help us in a big way, it’s a good thing to win against a seasoned team who are under a good coach.’’

Triangle coach Taurai Mangwiro said they were conceding goals they could avoid.

“It is very unfortunate that we have conceded another spot kick which cost us three points. We were expecting to press but had a decision go against us and this demoralised us,’’ he said.

Teams
Herentals: F. Kuchineyi, B. Maunganidze, C.Mavhurume, P. Chaota, W. Chimbetu, W. Kapumha, I. Benza (E. Mhungu 69th min), E. Dzirondiro (R. Chishaya 60th min), T. Dube (J. Mutudza 33rd min), R. Hachiro, B.Majarira.

Triangle: T. Chilenga, R. Kawondera, R. Mhlanga, K.Chigwida, D. Dzingai, T. Mavhonga, P. Manhanga (A. Chivandire 71st min), C. Dennias (D. Murimba 60th min), R.           Madamombe, P. Bhamusi, N. Lameck.

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
FORMER Highlanders and national team right-back Noel Kaseke has decided to hang his boots, putting an end to a 20-year playing career.

Kaseke, who turns 38-years-old in December, announced his decision to quit the game that gave him fame and fortune on his Facebook timeline on Wednesday.

He won three league championships with Bosso between 1999 and 2001, before moving to Europe where he spent 16 years and won numerous accolades.

In his post, he expressed his gratitude to clubs, teammates, coaches and fans, who supported him throughout his 20-year playing career.

Kaseke started playing for the Highlanders first team when he was still a student at Bulawayo’s Founders High School.

“It has been the most amazing journey filled with every emotion I can think of. Sixteen and a half years of playing abroad filled with trophies and personal achievements that I could not have imagined in my lifetime. I’m almost 38-years-old and I have met and made great friends and people who have become family to me,” Kaseke wrote.

“Who says family is only blood relatives? Well, let me tell you that in my 16 and a half years playing abroad coupled with four great years in the first team of boyhood club Highlanders where I won the league and a countless number of trophies with the first team, coupled with the many trophies won with the junior teams, I have a huge family that I can’t mention all in this post. I knew this day would come and it has finally come.

“I am hanging my football boots. It has been an amazing journey; thank you Highlanders, thank you Erzeni, thank you Dinamo, thank you Paralimni, thank you Omonoia, thank you Alki, thank you Al Shaab, thank you Dibba Al Hisin, thank you Masfoot (the last team he played for).”

Among the coaches that Kaseke mentioned are the late Highlanders, AmaZulu and FC Platinum coach Benjamin Moyo, renowned juniors gaffer Ali Baba Dube and Rahman Gumbo.

He also listed the coaches he played under abroad.

“The people that stood by me saw me through this whole journey. My wife and kids, my family, friends and my biggest family, the fans that have made me feel so special in my whole career. Without you I know it wouldn’t have been such an amazing journey and above all My God, My Almighty. Words can’t express enough for this gift that you have blessed me with. Thank you for Blessing me My God and I know I was never the best, but you blessed me even though I was not the best.

“A new journey begins for me now and I just want to say thank you My God for you alone know the plans you have for me, plans to prosper me not to harm me. I am safe in your hands Lord. Thank you once again to you all for being part of my amazing football career,” said Kaseke.

The former national team utility player declined to reveal his plans, but it is highly likely that he will venture into coaching.

Kaseke is in Harare with Christian Brothers College (CBC) for today’s schools’ soccer tournament being held at St Georges College. — @ZililoR

Anna Mguni

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Olympic Committee (ZOC) has partnered with local charitable organisation Tambai Zimbabwe Trust to empower female sportspersons through the Women and Girls Empowerment Sports (WAGES) festival.

The event will be held at Prince Edward High School, Girls High School, Queen Elizabeth School and Allan Wilson School in Harare from today up to Sunday.

WAGES festival is a package of sport participation, fitness activities, information, education and awareness about gender based violence (GBV), healthy living, Olympic values, anti-doping, HIV/Aids, non-communicable diseases and the rights of women and girls.

The Festival will draw participants from schools, community clubs, tertiary institutions, mines, farms and uniformed services around Zimbabwe.

As part of its support, ZOC has agreed to bring top Zambian female sports administrator Brenda Chipande, who is executive director of the Zambia National Olympic Committee, to present a thesis titled “Gender-based violence in Zambian Sport: Prevalence and Prevention” that she wrote towards her Masters in Sport Science with the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences. The objective of her research was to educate coaches and athletes about gender-based violence in sport and to develop recommendations towards reducing harassment and abuse in sport.

“ZOC has always been at the forefront of living the gospel of female empowerment through sports as can be seen by the top positions females have occupied within ZOC over years. Busi Chindove was for many years vice-president of the ZOC board and now we have Olympian Kirsty Coventry also in the same capacity. This is over and above many other initiatives aimed at strengthening the position of women through our Women in Sport Commission.

“So when Tambai Zimbabwe invited us on board, we felt the need to complement their efforts by bringing in Brenda to particularly address the issue of gender-based violence in sport, an issue that is at the centre of our latest efforts to raise increased awareness on the need for a safe and secure environment in sport for women,” ZOC chief executive officer Anna Mguni said.

Tambai Zimbabwe board of trustees representative and vice-chairperson of the WAGES Festival Committee Melody Gondo thanked ZOC for bringing Brenda to the festival.

“We are very grateful to ZOC for responding to our call to partner us by bringing Brenda all the way from Zambia. Her knowledge and experience on gender-based violence will help attract the attention of duty bearers, policy makers and opinion leaders so that measures are enacted to address the issue. The coming in of ZOC will also bring to the fore, years of effort we have invested in making the WAGES festival the ‘go to’ platform that every woman and girl in Zimbabwe would like to attend and be associated with,” said Gondo.

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
THE Bulawayo Chess Association (BCA) organised Africa Day open tournament gets underway at Montrose High School this morning.

By noon yesterday, 110 players had registered for the competition where participants will contest in five categories; Open, Ladies, Junior A (Form 4 to 6), Junior B (Form 1 to 3) and development (Grade 7 going down).

BCA spokesman Moses Mutipforo said they expect the number to rise, with most people registering just before the tournament kicks off.

Late registration fees for the Open and Ladies’ events is $8, with secondary school participants paying $5, while primary school learners will fork out $3.

“What is pleasing is that schools took heed of our calls to register their teams and the bulk of the 110 participants that beat the deadline are from schools. This is encouraging and it is good for the development of the sport as the youngsters get a chance to sharpen their skills by being active. There’s some excitement among schools and BCA’s efforts to create a vibrant league as well as schools’ competition are on track,” said Mutipforo.

Defending Africa Day champion Phakamani Sithole from Nkulumane will have to shrug off challenges from chess masters Castro Sibanda, Kudakwashe Sibanda and Tapiwa Jele.

Castro has already bagged two titles this year, the Nust Easter Open and the Independence Day Open, while Jele claimed the Hillside Open in February.
ZRP’s duo of Tarcision Chikandi and Benson Chinodyanama, the Bulawayo Chess Club pair of Thabang Moyo and Russell Dzete as well as Tony Sinyanyezu and Ayanda Ndlovu of Bulawayo Polytechnic are some of the top contenders for the title that have registered.

Top women’s seeds Tessa Gumirenhete of ZRP Bulawayo and Hillside’s Nomalungelo Mathe have confirmed their participation.

Meanwhile, 10 players that will accumulate the most points at BCA organised competitions throughout the year will compete for the Bulawayo Championship to be held in December. — @ZililoR

Tendai Chikuni

Lovemore Zigara in Gweru
SHABANIE Mine have dismissed speculation that they intend rehiring former coach Tendai Chikuni to replace Takesure Chiragwi.

The asbestos miners are second from bottom on the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League table with a paltry nine points, which has triggered calls for Chiragwi’s sacking.

Shabanie supporters recently denounced Chiragwi and called for the reinstatement of Chikuni, who is currently club hunting after severing ties with Chapungu.

Chikuni is revered at the asbestos miners, having guided the Chinda Boys back into the topflight league in 2016.

Shabanie Mine secretary Max Nyashanu said the club is not hiring Chikuni, but working to address problems in its camp to turn around its waning fortunes.

“Those are rumours which are being peddled by people who do not know what is going on at the club. We have not been in touch with Chikuni and no negotiations are taking place and if there are to be any developments at the club, we will use the proper channels to communicate,” said Nyashanu.

“We appreciate that we are in a tight spot as a club where we are second from bottom and obviously any team does not want to be in that sort of position and we are doing everything as an executive to get out of the drop zone.”

He, however, could not be drawn into commenting on what the club will do in light of the poor results, saying “an announcement will be made in due course”.

Sources at the club said a technical shake up is looming at Shabanie Mine which might claim the scalp of Chiragwi.

The sources said Chikuni’s name had been thrown around to replace Chiragwi as he understands the culture of the club. — @lavuzigara1

Winston Mhango

Mukudzei Chingwere in ZVISHAVANE
FC Platinum 1- 0 Nichrut
DEFENDING Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions FC Platinum needed a late first-half penalty at Mandava yesterday to dispatch battling provincial rivals Nichrut.

The champions desperately needed the result to keep up pace with early pacesetters Ngezi Platinum Stars who are unbeaten after 13 rounds of matches.
Coach Norman Mapeza’s men came into the match needing to respond after Ngezi Platinum collected maximum points on Wednesday against Chapungu.

But his miners were far from convincing and needed a Winston Mhango penalty to collect all points to keep the gap between themselves and the leaders at just three points.

The gaffer, however, uncharacteristically sluggish performance to fatigue from the midweek games they have played.

“We were playing a very organised side and it was not easy for us but we had some chances towards the end of the first half. But at the end of the day I cannot complain, we played against Dynamos on Sunday and maybe fatigue was creeping in but credit to the boys they played well. We are not even talking about Ngezi,’’ said Mapeza.

As early as the sixth minute wingback Raphael Muduviwa flighted a cross to Farai Madhanhanga who controlled the ball well before his effort crashed against the woodwork.

Former Dynamos winger Farai Vimisayi then flicked the ball into the path of Tatenda Hapazari who failed to bury the chance with home keeper Petros Mhari exposed.

Defensive linkman Mhango tried from range 38 minutes into the duel but his well-taken effort was pushed over by an alert Tafadzwa Javangwe in goals for Nichrut.

On the stroke of half-time Mapeza’s men heaved a huge sigh of relief when referee Arnold Ncube awarded them a penalty after he ruled that Rodwell Chinyengetere was fouled by David Boriwondo inside the box.

The visitors protested the decision.

Mhango made no mistake from twelve yards sending Javangwe the wrong way with a well-taken penalty.

After the breather the visitors had more of the ball but could not break down the hosts.

Nichrut gaffer John Nyikadzino hailed his charges for a job well done.
“We played very well but it is the same old story, we got a number of chances we failed to utilise. We executed our game plan properly, it’s unfortunate we lost in the first half we could have led but unfortunately we failed. Congratulations to FC Platinum, they managed to defend their lead,” said Nyikadzino.

Teams
FC Platinum: P Mhari, R Mudhuviwa, G Bello, K Moyo, E Moyo, W Mhango, R Chinyengetere, F Madhananga, R Kutsanzira, M Dube (A Eonde 72nd min), A Sadiki (G Mbweti 81st min)

Nichrut FC: T Jabangwe, G Bhero, B Sibanda, N Mpinduki, F Vimisayi, S Masunda, D Boriondo, F Bushiri, T Hapazari (J Chivasa 57th min), E Mwinga (B Madanhire 86th min), S Sithole (R Mabhena 66th min)

Quality Kangadze

Eddie Chikamhi, Harare Bureau
Black Rhinos 1 – 1 Dynamos
DYNAMOS interim coach Biggie Zuze has appealed for more time in his quest to turn around the fortunes of the struggling Harare giants after watching his side salvage a point in a Castle Lager Premiership match against Black Rhinos at Rufaro yesterday.

Second half substitute Quality Kangadze rescued the Glamour Boys who looked out of sorts after Lot Chiunga had put Rhinos ahead with 25 minutes on the board.

Zuze, who took over the reins from his former boss Lloyd Mutasa, has picked up four points from his three games in charge and it appears he still has to do more to win the hearts of the DeMbare faithful.

A section of disillusioned supporters occasionally hurled missiles onto the pitch yesterday, showered missiles on the technical team and the tension was visible with the technical bench who obliged by throwing goal-scorer Kangadze at the interval.

“I think most of the people would judge me with these three games but I think we should look at it from the perspective of where we are coming from. This is a very good point for us, the boys gave a very good fight and we know where we are coming from, especially the FC Platinum match.

“We need to give the players a bit of time. A lot of things have been happening in the last few days, especially the way we changed the coaches. But I think they are beginning to realise what we should do moving forward from now on,” said Zuze.

DeMbare needed a strong response coming from one of their worst performances against FC Platinum in their previous game at the same venue but they could not measure up to the task.

Rhinos had them on the backfoot when Chiunga reacted fastest to a throw in that was taken by Farai Banda and took advantage of a mix-up between goalkeeper Tonderai Mateyaunga and his men at the back.

Chiunga’s finishing was superb, placing the ball to the far left of the keeper and into the bottom corner, as DeMbare were still to reorganise themselves.
Rhinos saw most of the ball and came close to doubling the tally before the breather but were thwarted by a swift reaction from Mateyaunga.

DeMbare on the other hand could not create clear-cut chances with their former goalkeeper Ashley Reyners, who is now turning out for Rhinos, barely tested until the 56th minute when Kangadze profited from a free-kick taken by Ocean Mushure on the right and bundled the ball home from close range.

Still DeMbare remained 11th on the log standings with 13 points from as many games and trailing log leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars by a massive 22 points.
Zuze, who had to leave the funeral of his uncle in Bindura to attend the match yesterday, maintained the Glamour Boys will rise.

Rhinos also remained unchanged on eighth place despite moving to 15 points.

Their coach Herbert Maruwa, a former Dynamos assistant coach under Callisto Pasuwa, was satisfied with the result.

“I am quite happy with the point. At the same time I feel we were supposed to seal this game especially in the first half when we controlled the flow of the game,” said Maruwa.

Teams
Black Rhinos: A. Reyners, S. Jimu, F. Banda, M. Mekiwa (M. Mambare, 46th min), B. Homora, D. Mudadi, T. Jaravani, W. Kapinda, V. Mhandu (E. Chigija, 70th min), W. Taderera, L. Chiunga

Dynamos: T. Mateyaunga,  J. Tigere, R. Matova,  P. Makaha, G. Mukambi,  B. Moyo, J. Marufu, C. Kapupurika (V. Kadonzvo, 82nd min), E. Mandiranga (M. Mukumba,  58th min), O. Mushure, K. Kumwala (Q. Kangadze, 46th min).

Highlanders’ Godfrey Makaruse (left) tries to find his way past Bulawayo City’s Humphrey Ncube during a soccer league match played at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday

Ricky Zililo, Senior Sports Reporter
Bulawayo City 0-1 Highlanders
A SUPERB 74th minute free kick by Brian Banda enabled Highlanders to edge past Bulawayo City and end Bosso’s three-match winless run in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Barbourfields Stadium yesterday.

Banda brilliantly curled his free kick into the left top corner of the net from an acute angle, beating City goalkeeper Takudzwa Ndoro to give Highlanders the bragging rights and sink the municipal side deeper into the drop zone.

Highlanders had last won on May 1 when they beat Mutare City 1-0 followed by a 1-2 home defeat by ZPC Kariba and goalless draws against Yadah in Harare and Caps United at home.

The victory saw Highlanders clinging onto third position on the league table with 25 points from 13 games. They trail log leaders Ngezi Platinum Stars by 10 points.

For a side that is rebuilding, Highlanders’ coach Madinda Ndlovu is happy with the progress made by his players, although they were not at their best yesterday.

“It was a very difficult game. As I said earlier on, this derby came before we could make the necessary preparations. What made it difficult is that we were playing against the sons of Highlanders, who understand the culture of the club and what we are trying to do. But we managed the better part of the first half very well, we moved the ball very well and the last 15 minutes of the game they came back and looked as if they were going to get an equaliser,” said Ndlovu.

“I think we had better luck today than Bulawayo City in that we utilised the set-piece and that made the difference. I’m happy we managed to go home with all three points, particularly looking at the fact that we’re going to play another game this weekend,” he said.

Bosso showed signs of hunger as they had more attempts on goal than City.

Bosso winger Godfrey Makaruse breezed past Zephaniah Ngodzo and watched as his weak right-footed shot took an awkward bounce and Ndoro had to push the ball out for a corner in the fourth minute. Three minutes later, Makaruse sent his attempt from the edge of the box wide for a goal kick.

Makaruse fluffed another glorious opportunity in the 13th minute after dribbling past three City players only to shoot wide with only Ndoro to beat.
Both sides had an almost similar approach to the game, preferring to start the ball from the back, as they tried to find openings.

City’s first half chance fell to Ishmael Wadi in the 41st minute when he dispossessed Charlton Siamalonga, but he failed to beat Bosso keeper Ariel Sibanda.
Despite Highlanders making several attempts, City never panicked and stuck to their game plan, hoping to catch Bosso on the break.

It was, however, Highlanders who continued to create half chances, and in the 65th minute – substitutes Ray Lunga and Newman Sianchali linked up only for Sianchali to blaze his effort over the bar.

Ngodzo almost beat his goalkeeper with a back pass minutes later and Ndoro reacted by heading the ball out for a corner.

Then in the 74th minute, City captain Zibusiso Sibanda fouled Sianchali on the left side and up stepped Banda to strike the ball into the top corner with aplomb.

A few minutes before fulltime, former Highlanders’ striker Nhlanhla Ndlovu had the best opportunity to equalise for City, but he chose to take another step inside the box allowing the Bosso backline to recover.

City coach Amini Soma-Phiri said: “That’s the game of football where you outplay your opponents and then the result is the opposite. What I’m happy about is that the boys are giving a fight. In the last two games that I have been in charge, we were playing for 65 to 75 minutes, but today we played up to the 90th minute.

“About the goal, I think it was a bit of luck. They just got that gift of a goal. The keeper failed to cover his space.”

Teams
Bulawayo City: Takudzwa Ndoro, Zephaniah Ngodzo, Humphrey Ncube, Erick Mudzingwa, Zibusiso Sibanda, Tatenda Tavengwa , Sipho Ndlovu, Ayanda Ncube (Justine Kaunda, 65th minute), Clive Rupiya (Lucky Nyathi, 85th minute), Ishmael Wadi, Toto Banda (Nhlanhla Ndlovu, 79th minute)

Highlanders: Ariel Sibanda, McClive Phiri, Mbongeni Ndlovu, Charlton Siamalonga, Peter Muduhwa, Adrian Silla (Newman Sianchali, 62nd minute), Ben Musaka, Brian Banda, Godfrey Makaruse (Brian Jaravaza, 80th minute), Ozias Zibande (Ray Lunga, 59th minute), Gabriel Nyoni

Results
Wednesday: Caps United 3-0 ZPC Kariba, Chapungu 0-1 Ngezi Platinum Stars, Harare City 2-1 Shabanie Mine,  Bulawayo Chiefs 0-2 Chicken Inn

Yesterday: Herentals 1-0 Triangle United, Yadah 1-0 Mutare City, Bulawayo City 0-1 Highlanders, Black Rhinos 1-1 Dynamos, FC Platinum 1-0 Nichrut —

PSL TABLE
P     W     D     L     F     A     GD     Pts
Ngezi Platinum     13     11     2     0     23     3     20     35
FC Platinum     13     10     2     1     18    4     14     32
Highlanders     13     7     4     2     14     7     7     25
Chicken Inn     13     6    6     1     16     8     8     24
Harare City     13     6     6     1     13     8     5     24
Caps United     13     5     5     3     17     11     6     20
Triangle United     13     6    2     5     12     10     2     20
Black Rhinos     13     3     6     4     8     10    -2     15
Herentals     13     3     5     5     6     11     -5     14
Yadah FC     13     3     5     5     10     17    -7     14
Dynamos     13     3     4     6     11     15     -4     13
Nichrut     13     3     4     6     11     15     -4     13
Byo Chiefs     13     2     6     5     9     14     -5     12
Chapungu     13     3     3     7     8     15     -7     12
ZPC Kariba     13     2     6     5     7     15     -8     12
Byo City     13     3     1     9     12     17     -5     10
Shabanie Mine     13     1     6     6     12     21     -9     9
Mutare City     13     1     5     7     10     15    -5    8

@ZililoR

Lovemore Zigara in Gweru
A potentially explosive game is on the cards when perennial campaigners ZPC Munyati take on pacesetters Whawha in a Zimbabwe General Medical Aid Fund sponsored Central Region Soccer League this afternoon.

ZPC Munyati, fifth on the table, need nothing other than a victory to put their campaign back on track in a tight championship race where the top nine teams in the 12 team league are still in with a chance to land the sole promotional ticket from the region.

Whawha come into the game as favourites if current form is anything to go by.

Luke Petros-Jukulile, the Whawha gaffer conceded that it is going to be a tough match but expressed confidence of posting a “positive result.”

“It’s going to be a tough match especially playing against ZPC Munyati who have a good home record. We are going there to compete and I am confident that we will come out with a positive result,” said the former Warriors striker.

His counterpart, Isaac Nyabvure said he would want to maximise on home advantage to collect the three points at stake.

“Playing against Whawha is always tough because they have the experience but we have to use our home advantage so that we come out with a good result,” Nyabvure said.

“We need to win at all costs so that we still remain in contention with the other chasing pack,” he added.

Elsewhere, Ivan Hoe entertain second TelOne at Amaveni where the home side will also be looking at nothing short of victory to revive their faltering campaign.

The Kwekwe-based side are ninth on the table.

Ivan Hoe mentor Julius Chakupewa said they will be looking to collect maximum points.

“We are playing to win like we always do. We are not in a good position on the log and we want to improve on that,” he said.

Fixtures
Today: Black Eagles v Tongogara (Simbi), MSU v Blanket Mine (Mkoba), ZPC Munyati v Whawha (Munyati), Vumbachikwe v Sheasham (Vumbachikwe)

Tomorrow: Ivan Hoe v Telone (Amaveni), FC Lesaffre v FC Platinum U19 (Wilson Fields)
— @lavuzigara1

John Nyikadzino

Lovemore Zigara in Gweru
PREMIERSHIP newboys Nichrut return to Ascot Stadium tomorrow, looking for a win against army side Black Rhinos in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match.

Nichrut, who have collected four points in their last five matches, will be out for a victory as they seek to move away from the relegation zone.

The Shurugwi-based side is on position 11 with 13 points from 13 games, just a point above relegation.

Nichrut gaffer John Nyikadzino said his charges are ready for Black Rhinos adding that they are hard-pressed for maximum points in their endeavor to swim away from the murky relegation waters.

“We are preparing for the game and we want a win on Sunday. It won’t be easy but we are working very hard to come out with a positive result. We have been playing well but results have been eluding us. We have to step up our game if we are to remain in the league. The boys know what is expected of them and I am happy they are responding well and come Sunday I am sure the community of Shurugwi will be happy,” said Nyikadzino.

Nichrut have had decent displays of late and with their fans rallying behind them.

They go into the game smarting from a 0-1 loss to FC Platinum.

However, the army side are not pushovers if their recent performances are anything to go by.

Chauya Chipembere would count themselves unlucky for failing to win after giving a vintage display against Harare giants Dynamos before settling for a 1-1 draw in a match which they led for the better part on Thursday. — @lavuzigara1