Dynamos emerged as the winners of the 2025 Castle Challenge Cup, defeating Simba Bhora 5-3 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw at the end of 90 minutes at a rain-soaked Rufaro Stadium on Saturday.
Simba Bhora took the lead in the 47th minute with a goal from centre-back Isheanesu Mauchi. However, Dynamos’ new signing Mandivei equalised for DeMbare with just three minutes remaining.
Dynamos coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe started three new signings — Blessing “MaBhule” Dziwo, Ghanaian striker Frank Agmeyang, and Mandivei.
On the other hand, Simba Bhora’s coach, Joel Lupahla, gave seven new signings their first starts, including goalkeeper Tonderai Mateyaunga, Trevor Mavhunga, Butholezwe Ncube, Blessed Ndereki, Emmanuel Ziocha, Donald Mudadi, and Isakar Guribab.
In a dramatic penalty shootout, Dynamos’ Abel Gwatidzo, a forgotten junior product, stepped up to convert the winning penalty, marking a triumphant return for DeMbare in the cup final.
Temptation Chiwunga, Emmanuel Jalai, Donald Dzvinyai, and Clive Mandivei all scored during the shootout for Dynamos.
For Simba Bhora, Blessing Moyo, Harrison Masina, and Never Tigere successfully converted their penalties, but Ismael Nyanhi missed, sealing the victory for Dynamos.
<h2>Teams</h2>
Dynamos: P. Tafiremutsa, E. Jalai, N. Chinyerere, C. Mandivei, D. Dzvinyai, S. Nyahwa (T. Pio 82nd), E. Chikona, B. Dziwo (A. Mandinyenya 52, A. Gwatidzo 94), F. Agmeyang (B. Jerimani 77), T. Chiwunga, V. Kadonzvo (E. Perezo Junior 77)
Simba Bhora: T. Mateyaunga, W. Tafa, I. Mauchi, T. Mavhunga, B. Moyo, I. Nyanhi, B. Ncube (L. Chakoroma 86), B. Ndereki, E. Ziocha (W. Manondo 65), D. Mudadi (N. Tigere 65), I. Guribab (J. Makunike 75)

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Dynamos won the 2025 Castle Challenge Cup by beating Simba Bhora 5-3 in a penalty shootout. Simba Bhora scored first, but Dynamos equalized late in the game. Both teams had new players on the field. In the shootout, Dynamos scored more goals, with Abel Gwatidzo converting the winning penalty. Simba Bhora also scored, but one of their shots missed, giving Dynamos the victory. It was a tough and exciting game, with both teams playing well.

Dynamos Edge Simba Bhora 5-3 In Penalty Shootout To Win 2025 Castle Challenge Cup

Former Dynamos FC striker, Sadney Urikhob, has turned to FIFA after not receiving his signing-on fees and winning bonuses from the club.
Urikhob, who helped DeMbare clinch the Chibuku Super Cup and secure a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup, spent a single season with the team before moving to ambitious Premiership newcomers, Scottland.
The Namibian forward was supposed to be paid US$9,000 in signing-on fees by February of last year. 
However, with no payment in sight, Urikhob had no choice but to inform the club’s leadership, led by Moses Maunganidze, of his decision to involve FIFA.
In line with procedure, Urikhob’s representatives sent three letters to the club, but the cash-strapped Harare giants didn’t respond.
His former manager, Trust Nyambiya, confirmed to <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2025/02/09/urikhob-takes-dynamos-to-fifa-over-unpaid-signing-on-fees/">Soccer24</a> that Urikhob is still owed both his signing-on fees and winning bonuses. Said Nyambiya:
<blockquote>
As far as I know, he ought to have been paid his signing-on fees on February 28 last year. He approached me on November 28, after efforts to be paid hit a brick wall and he told me he was taking the issue to FIFA.
Right now his handlers are from Namibia and are handling the issue but all I know is that efforts to engage Dynamos over the matter were fruitless.
</blockquote>
A source close to the situation has revealed that Dynamos has been given a deadline to settle the outstanding payment to the player.
Failure to pay by the deadline could result in serious consequences for the club, including a potential ban from participating in the CAF Confederation Cup or a transfer ban.

Sadney Urikhob used to play for Dynamos FC and helped them win a cup. But he didn't get paid the money he was supposed to get. He asked the club for his money, but they didn't give it to him. Now, he's asking FIFA to help him get his money. If the club doesn't pay him soon, they could get in big trouble and might not be able to play in a big cup. So, Urikhob is trying to get the money he deserves with the help of FIFA.

Sadney Urikhob Takes Dynamos To FIFA Over Unpaid Dues

FC Platinum’s hope of clinching the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title has been shattered after they suffered a 2-0 defeat against Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
League leaders Simba Bhora had earlier extended their advantage at the top of the table to nine points, courtesy of a 2-1 victory over CAPS United at Wadzanai Stadium on Saturday.
Following the MatchDay 31 fixtures, Simba Bhora have amassed an impressive 63 points, while FC Platinum, who occupy second place, have 54 points.
This means Simba Bhora now require at most one point from their remaining three matches to be crowned the 2024 PSL champions.
The match at Rufaro Stadium was decided by a two-minute blitz in the first half, with Emmanuel Ziocha and Valentine Kadonzvo finding the back of the net for Dynamos, leaving the Norman Mapeza-coached FC Platinum side stunned.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Dynamos coach Lloyd Chigowe revealed that they knew FC Platinum would be under immense pressure to score goals and secure the win to keep pace with Simba Bhora at the top of the table. He said:
<blockquote>
We knew that FC Platinum would always come guns blazing. So, we allowed them to come forward and then we hit them on the counter and for sure we hit them.
We feel we could have done that on three or four occasions. But in the end, we played tactically good football, managed to absorb the pressure and lasted the distance, which was key for us.
This team has great potential if well-managed and, I think if all their welfare issues are attended to, and they don’t have any issues, I think they can go great guns against any side in this country.
You can see even the run that they had in the Confederation Cup, it proved that the performance today was not a fluke.
</blockquote>
Mapeza conceded that his FC Platinum side failed to do enough to secure the win, as they struggled to create clear-cut goal-scoring opportunities throughout the match. He said:
<blockquote>
We started well, but we gave away two soft goals. The first goal was a result of a mix-up from the set-piece and from that set-piece we ended up conceding.
The second goal was more of the same, pushing up and the offside trap wasn’t on. I think those were the only two moments that made us lose the game.
But overall, I thought in the second half we tried but we didn’t create enough opportunities.
But it’s a game of football. We have been fighting so hard since the start of the season and look where we are now.
I never thought we would be where we are today because we had so many issues along the way.
But I am proud of these boys. Some of these guys we played today, we brought them from Division One and already they are showing a lot of maturity.
So, I don’t have to blame the players for the loss. The guys worked so well; we just need to focus on the remaining three games.
</blockquote>
Defending PSL champions Ngezi Platinum Stars are currently third in the league standings with 47 points, tied with Highlanders FC and Manica Diamonds FC. However, Ngezi Platinum Stars have a game in hand over their rivals.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

FC Platinum lost 2-0 to Dynamos, hurting their chances of winning the league. Simba Bhora, the leaders, are 9 points ahead. FC Platinum has 3 games left but Simba Bhora only need 1 point to win. Dynamos' coach used tactics to beat FC Platinum. FC Platinum's coach Mapeza admitted his team didn't play well. Ngezi Platinum Stars are third with 47 points, tied with Highlanders and Manica Diamonds. Simba Bhora is close to winning the league.

Dynamos Derail FC Platinum's Title Charge

Dynamos head coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe said that his team is not focused on derailing FC Platinum’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) title ambitions when the two sides meet at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
Currently, FC Platinum sits with 54 points, six behind log leaders Simba Bhora, as the season approaches its final four rounds.
Simba Bhora will host CAPS United on Saturday, and if they were to lose while FC Platinum secures a victory, the gap at the top would narrow to just three points.
Dynamos, having fallen out of the championship race long ago, find themselves 19 points behind the leaders.
With only 41 points from 29 matches, they currently sit ninth in the standings as they head into their last five games of the season. Said Chigowe:
<blockquote>
We are not going to spoil anyone’s party, but we also have to party ourselves. We go in there as Dynamos, a brand that needs to come to the party.
These are the kind of games in which we should show our qualities. We are not under any pressure, we know FC Platinum want it desperately.
When you are desperate sometimes you are forced to make some mistakes, but when you play your normal game without pressure there’s an added advantage.
</blockquote>
In the reverse fixture, FC Platinum secured a 1-0 victory over Dynamos at Mandava, thanks to a 61st-minute goal from Wilfred Muvirimi.
Looking ahead, if Simba Bhora defeats CAPS United and FC Platinum loses to Dynamos, the gap between the two teams will widen to nine points as they enter the final three matches of the season.
This scenario would put Simba Bhora in a strong position to clinch their first PSL title, as they would need to lose all three remaining matches for FC Platinum to have a chance, while FC Platinum would need to win all their games.
Currently, FC Platinum holds a slight edge in goal difference, leading Simba Bhora by two goals.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos coach Mablanyo said they won't spoil FC Platinum's chance to win. FC Platinum is 6 points behind Simba Bhora in the league. Dynamos are far behind in points. Mablanyo said they will play well but not under pressure. If FC Platinum loses to Dynamos, Simba Bhora will be 9 points ahead. This could help Simba Bhora win the title. It's an important match for both teams. These are the main points in the news about the upcoming soccer game.

Dynamos Not Out To Spoil FC Platinum's Title Charge, Says Mablanyo

Ngezi Platinum Stars and Dynamos will meet again in the final of the Chibuku Super Cup, for the second consecutive year.
The showdown follows Ngezi Platinum Stars’ thrilling victory over Simba Bhora, winning 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw at Baobab Stadium on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Dynamos secured their spot by defeating Manica Diamonds 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 stalemate at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
In Saturday’s match in Mhondoro, Ngezi took the lead in the 37th minute with a goal from Talent Chamboko.
However, Simba Bhora equalised in the 75th minute thanks to Tymon Machope’s close-range effort.
Machope then scored again six minutes later, putting Simba ahead, but Ngezi responded just two minutes after that with Farai Madanhanga’s goal, sending the match to penalties.
During the shootout, Kudzai Chigwida, Nigel Makumbe, Takunda Benhura, Never Tigere, and Madanhanga all successfully converted their kicks for Ngezi Platinum Stars.
For Simba, Walter Musona, Blessing Moyo, Gift Saunyama, and Onifade Abubakar scored, but Ishe Mauchi had his attempt saved, securing Ngezi’s place in the final.
On Sunday in Harare, Dynamos faced an uphill battle after conceding a goal to Bret Amidu just 19 minutes into the match.
However, they rallied in the dying moments, with substitute Emmanuel Paga scoring a crucial equaliser four minutes into stoppage time, again forcing penalties.
All four Dynamos penalty takers—captain Frank Makarati, Congolese forward Eli Ilunga, Arthur Musiyiwa, and Valentine Kadonzvo—successfully found the net.
Manica Diamonds’ Forster Dhemere was thwarted by Dynamos goalkeeper Martin Mapisa, and Takunda Jeffrey’s shot went wide.
Veteran Gerald Bero and Farai Banda managed to score for Manica, but it wasn’t enough to clinch victory.
In the 2023 edition of Zimbabwe’s premier knockout tournament, which offers a ticket to the CAF Confederations Cup, Dynamos beat Ngezi 2-0.
This year, the Chibuku Super Cup represents the only opportunity for either Ngezi or Dynamos to secure silverware, as both clubs trail in the race for the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title.
Currently, Ngezi sits in fourth place with 46 points, 14 points behind log leader Simba Bhora, while Dynamos are in ninth place with 41 points, 19 points off the top spot.
The 2023 Chibuku Super Cup final was played at Baobab Stadium, while this year’s edition is set to be held at Rufaro Stadium.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Ngezi Platinum Stars and Dynamos will play in the Chibuku Super Cup final for the second year in a row. Ngezi beat Simba Bhora 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Dynamos defeated Manica Diamonds 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 tie. Ngezi's Farai Madanhanga and Dynamos' Emmanuel Paga scored crucial goals. Both teams are behind in the league. The final will be held at Rufaro Stadium. This is the only chance for either team to win a trophy this year.

Ngezi Platinum Stars And Dynamos To Face Off Again In Chibuku Super Cup Final

Dynamos players returned to training on Friday after boycotting sessions on Wednesday and Thursday to protest unpaid winning bonuses and signing-on fees.
The sit-in had put their upcoming Chibuku Super Cup semifinal clash against Manica Diamonds at Rufaro Stadium in jeopardy.
Following a meeting with the club’s leadership, the players agreed to resume training. However, the situation took a turn for the worse on Friday morning when the club suspended Tanaka Shandirwa.
In response, the entire squad vowed to continue their protest, refusing to return to training until the suspension was lifted.
It wasn’t until the club reversed Shandirwa’s suspension that the players agreed to return to practice.
Meanwhile, the club’s executive has assured the players that their winning bonuses will be paid at the end of the season.
Players who spoke to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200034119/dembare-players-end-strike">NewsDay</a> on Thursday claimed they were owed approximately US$500 each, in addition to outstanding signing-on fees.
However, club chairperson Moses Maunganidze denied the claims regarding signing-on fees, confirming only that they do owe bonuses, adding that an agreement is in place to address the issue. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, we owe the players winning bonuses for about five games. However, the agreement was to pay them once-off at the end of the season.
If you still remember, we paid them winning bonuses for the first half of the season in June-July as a once-off payment.
Then we agreed with them to do the same for the second half of the season at the end of the term.
We are shocked to see them staging a sit-in for a matter that we thought had been addressed.
</blockquote>
The Chibuku Super Cup is now the only title Dynamos can aim for this season, as they are out of contention for the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title.
Last season, DeMbare secured the Chibuku Super Cup by defeating Ngezi Platinum 2-0 in the final, earning a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup. However, they were eliminated by Orapa United of Botswana.
Winning the Chibuku Super Cup again would grant the Glamour Boys a quick return to the CAF Confederation Cup.
In the other semifinal, last season’s finalist Ngezi Platinum Stars will face Simba Bhora at Baobab Stadium this Saturday.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Players from Dynamos stopped practicing because they weren't paid their bonuses and fees. They almost missed an important match. The players went back to training after a meeting but got angry when a player was suspended. They only returned to playing after the suspension was lifted. The club says they will pay the bonuses at the end of the season. This is the only title Dynamos can win this season. Last season they won a cup but lost in a later match. If they win this cup again, they can play in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Dynamos Players End Training Boycott

Dynamos players refused to train for the second consecutive day on Thursday in protest over unpaid winning bonuses and sign-on fees.
This strike has disrupted the team’s preparations for their Chibuku Super Cup semi-final match against Manica Diamonds, scheduled for Sunday at Rufaro Stadium.
Reports indicate that the players rejected attempts by chairman Moses Maunganidze to address them at their training ground.
They also dismissed the club’s promise to pay the outstanding bonuses in a lump sum at the end of the season, as some players’ contracts with DeMbare will expire before then.
Speaking to  <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dembare-players-standoff-persists/">The Herald</a> on Thursday night, Maunganidze expressed hope that the club would settle the outstanding bonuses today, allowing the players to resume their preparations for the upcoming match against Manica Diamonds. He said:
<blockquote>
Unfortunately, the players have decided to down their tools at a time when we thought all was well given we agreed to pay their winning bonuses at once for the second half of the season.
But there is nothing much that we can do because they are not training and all we can do is pay them the outstanding bonuses.
We have secured the funds, and we are in the middle of processing them.
I hope that by tomorrow (today) we will be able to pay all that we owe them.
We agreed to pay the bonuses all at once for the second half of the season like we did last year.
Even those players whose contracts were running out at the end of last year, we paid them, so I do not see any reason why those with contracts running out at the end of this term are panicking.
But these things happen, and we have tried our best to also address things from our end and we are saying the payment will be done tomorrow (today).
</blockquote>
The Chibuku Super Cup is the only title Dynamos can win this season, as they are no longer in the running for the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title.
Last season, DeMbare clinched the Chibuku Super Cup trophy by defeating Ngezi Platinum 2-0 in the final, earning the right to represent Zimbabwe in the CAF Confederation Cup.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos players are angry because they haven't been paid their prizes and sign-on fees. They refused to practice for a big match. The club says they will pay the money soon. The players are worried because some of their contracts end before the end of the season. Dynamos can only win the Chibuku Super Cup this year. Last year, they won this trophy and got to play in the CAF Confederation Cup. Hopefully, the players will get their money and start training again.

Dynamos Players Boycott Training Over Unpaid Bonuses

Dynamos lost 1-0 to Chicken Inn in a rescheduled Castle Lager Premiership match at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
Gamecocks captain Xolani Ndlovu scored a free-kick in the 71st minute, confining Dynamos to a second consecutive defeat after their 2-1 loss to CAPS United in the Harare Derby last weekend.
As has been a recurring issue, Dynamos are struggling to defend in the last 20 minutes of matches, with goals coming from set pieces.
This pattern plagued them in their previous game, where they squandered a first-half lead against CAPS United, conceding an 86th-minute goal from a free-kick.
Dynamos remain ninth in the league with 38 points, while Chicken Inn moves up to sixth with 42 points.
Dynamos dominated early possession, but Chicken Inn had the first significant chance, with goalkeeper Tafiremutsa blocking a close-range header from Brian Muza.
Chicken Inn made an injury substitution in the 27th minute, replacing Muza, who appeared to have a pulled muscle.
Dynamos struggled to create clear scoring opportunities despite Valentine Kadonzvo’s impressive dribbling.
Chicken Inn nearly scored just before half-time, hitting the woodwork with a header from Elshamar Farasi.
Dynamos suffered another setback early in the second half when Donald Dzvinyai sustained a suspected shoulder injury and was replaced by Tendaishe Magwaza.
Chicken Inn secured the win with Xolani Ndlovu’s goal after a foul on substitute Genious Mutungamiri at the edge of the box.
The game experienced a brief stoppage due to tear gas affecting players from outside the stadium.
After resuming, Mutungamiri forced a good save from Tafiremutsa. In the dying moments of the match, Dynamos nearly equalised, but Elton Chikona’s shot hit the crossbar following a defensive error from Chicken Inn.
Dynamos caretaker coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe conceded that of late, his players have been failing to properly deal with set pieces. He said (via <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dembare-suffer-back-to-back-defeats/">The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
It’s clear we defended poorly from that free-kick. It’s unfortunate the goals are coming in different forms. The other time it is headed goals and this time it’s a direct goal.
The direct goal took us by surprise because we worked on it. When it’s a free-kick you must put a wall and the wall must block the ball. But if the wall opens up then that’s a basic error.
Unfortunately, we have to go back again and work with the guys to make sure that we don’t continue conceding from set pieces.
</blockquote>
Chicken Inn coach Joey Antipas was happy with the result though he believes his charges should have scored more goals. He said:
<blockquote>
I thought it was a good win. We played a solid game and in the first half, I thought we should have been at least two-nil up. We missed some opportunities but that’s the nature of the game.
The guys who came in the second half did very well. So we are happy with the three points, and we look forward to our next game against TelOne.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos lost 1-0 to Chicken Inn in a soccer match. This is their second loss in a row after losing to CAPS United last week. Dynamos is struggling with defending during the last 20 minutes of games and keeps giving up goals from set pieces. Chicken Inn's captain scored the winning goal in the 71st minute. Despite dominating early possession, Dynamos couldn't score. Dynamos' coach admitted they need to improve on defending set pieces. Chicken Inn's coach was happy with the win but felt they should have scored more goals.

Dynamos Suffer Second Straight Defeat After 0-1 Loss To Chicken Inn

Dynamos captain Frank Makarati and teammate Tendaishe Magwaza were involved in an accident on Monday night while returning home in Chitungwiza. The crash reportedly occurred around 11 PM.
Makarati’s agency, TKT Sports Agency, confirmed the incident, saying that both players emerged unscathed. TKT Sports Agency Director Trust Nyambiya
<blockquote>
Dear valued fans and supporters of Frank Makarati, We hope this message finds you well. We wanted to address the recent accident involving Frank Makarati and his teammate, Tendaishe Magwaza.
We are pleased to inform you that both Frank and Tendaishe were fortunate to escape the accident without any injuries.
We understand the concern and worry that many of you expressed, and we truly appreciate your support 
during this time.
As Frank’s management team at TKT Sports Agency, we are relieved that he is safe and sound. We want to thank each and every one of you for your messages, calls, and well-wishes. Your support means the world to us and to Frank.
Please join us in wishing Tendaishe and his family well, and we’re grateful that both players are unharmed.
</blockquote>
Makarati and Magwaza had just returned from Botswana, where they played a CAF Confederation Cup match against Orapa United on Sunday when the accident occurred.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Dynamos soccer players, Frank Makarati and Tendaishe Magwaza, were in a car crash on their way home in Chitungwiza. The accident happened around 11 PM but both players were okay. Their sports agency confirmed this. The players had just come back from playing a match in Botswana when the crash happened. The agency thanked fans for their support and well-wishes. Everyone is glad that both players are safe and unharmed after the scary accident.

Dynamos Players In Car Crash

Dynamos coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe expressed disappointment over the lack of CAF-approved stadiums in Zimbabwe following the club’s elimination from this season’s Confederation Cup by Orapa United.
DeMbare lost 3-1 on penalties to the Botswana side in the second leg of their first-round encounter, played at Obedi Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown on Sunday.
The tie concluded with a 1-1 aggregate score after Orapa United won the return fixture 1-0, overturning Dynamos’ 1-0 advantage from the first leg, which was also held at the same venue last week.
After the match, where Ivan Kamberipa scored the only goal for Orapa in the 78th minute, Chigowe said that if Dynamos had been able to host their home game in Zimbabwe instead of Botswana, the outcome might have been different. He said:
<blockquote>
We had the chances to kill off this contest, we had a penalty and we failed to score. Just like in the first match we had a glut of chances that we failed to take advantage of.
So at the end of the day we have ourselves to blame. But also we played both matches away from home. That’s a big disadvantage.
We played in the lion’s den twice and we lost. If we had played one of the matches at home I am sure the outcome would have been different.
It will be difficult to lift the boys after this, but that’s our job we will go back and talk to them so that we can challenge in other competitions.
</blockquote>
Dynamos had several opportunities during the match, including a missed first-half penalty by Kevin Moyo. Emmanuel Paga also had a goal disallowed earlier in the game for offside.
In the penalty shootout, only Temptation Chiwunga successfully converted his attempt, while Valentine Kadonzvo, Eli Ilunga, and Nomore Chinyerere all failed to score. As a result, Dynamos ultimately lost 3-1 on penalties.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos coach Mablanyo was sad because they lost a big game because they had to play both matches away from home in Botswana. They lost on penalties because they missed chances to score goals. If they played one match at home in Zimbabwe, they think they could have won. The coach said they will try to do better in other games. They missed a penalty and had a goal disallowed in the game. They lost 3-1 on penalties in the end.

Home Games Away Contributed To Dynamos' CAF Cup Elimination, Says Mablanyo

Dynamos captain Frank Makarati said the team is preparing for a challenging match against Botswana’s Orapa United in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup final preliminary round tie at Obert Itani Chilume Stadium on Sunday.
DeMbare enters the match with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, knowing that a draw will suffice for them to qualify for the group stages.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200032599/dembare-braced-for-big-fight">NewsDay</a>, Makarati said that the team will do everything possible to secure a positive result. He said:
<blockquote>
This is a match we have to win at all costs. We are prepared to leave everything on the field.
A win will mean a lot for the team and our supporters. As players, we want to play for our careers because a win will improve our CVs.
Qualifying for the group stages will also put the country back on the football map. So there is a lot at stake in this match.
Orapa are a good side, so we anticipate a tough encounter. We will have to concentrate for the whole 90 minutes because we know how dangerous they are.
We won the first match, but there is still a lot of work to do. I have been telling the boys to guard against complacency.
</blockquote>
Makarati added that the Glamour Boys will not sit back to defend their narrow 1-0 lead, saying such a strategy would be unwise.
Instead, they plan to take the game to the Batswana, aiming to “score a goal to finish them off.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos captain Makarati says the team is getting ready for a big game against Orapa United in the CAF Confederation Cup. They have a 1-0 lead from the first leg. Makarati says they need to win at all costs. If they win, it will be good for the team and their fans. They know Orapa is a strong team, so they need to stay focused. They won't just defend their lead, but will try to score more goals. They want to qualify for the next round and make their country proud.

Dynamos Ready For CAF Confederation Cup Battle - Makarati

Zimbabwe’s representatives in the CAF Confederation Cup, Dynamos, have opted to remain in Botswana rather than return home ahead of the second leg of their preliminary round clash against Orapa United this weekend.
Dynamos secured a 1-0 victory against Orapa United in the first leg, played at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown last Sunday, with winger Valentine Kadonzvo coming off the bench to score the decisive goal.
As the away team, Dynamos is now looking to finish the job when they host Orapa United at the same venue on Sunday.
Due to the lack of approved stadiums for international matches—neither Rufaro, the National Sports Stadium, nor Barbourfields meets Confederation of African Football standards—Dynamos has been using facilities in Botswana for their home games.
Initially, the club planned to base itself in Bulawayo after the first leg, but officials reconsidered and decided to stay at a resort area in Francistown while training at a nearby facility.
Dynamos chairman Moses Maunganidze told The Herald on Tuesday that team morale is high as they prepare for the upcoming match. Said Maunganidze:
<blockquote>
We are leaving nothing to chance as a club. We really need to attend to all issues and make sure that every margin is taken care of.
Rather than travelling back to Bulawayo as per our initial plan, we decided to stay put in Botswana.
The team is staying at a resort and everything is going well.
Setting up base in Bulawayo would have been advantageous for us because we would have been training and living in familiar territory.
But we wanted to minimise movement as well and allow those with little knocks time to recover while relaxed.
We are training at the old stadium owned by the municipality which used to host all the matches played in Francistown before the homologation of the new stadium.
Everything is flowing and we are very happy as Dynamos. Hopefully, we will be able to pull through on Sunday.
The morale in the camp is high and all the players are eager to go out there and defend the badge.
The technical team is working on all the necessary facets of the game to make sure the troops remain focused and this includes mental and physical preparation.
</blockquote>
This season, the champions of the CAF Confederation Cup will receive US$2 million, while the runners-up will earn half that amount. Semi-finalists will take home US$750,000 each.
Clubs eliminated in the quarter-finals will each receive US$550,000, and teams that do not advance past the group stage will each earn US$400,000.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos, a team from Zimbabwe, won their first match against Orapa United in Botswana. Now they are staying in Botswana for the second match to make it easier to train and prepare. The team is in high spirits and focused on winning the next match. If they do well in the CAF Confederation Cup, they can win a lot of money. The team is working hard to make sure they are ready for the big game coming up. They are staying at a resort and training in a nearby facility to stay fit and ready.

Dynamos Remain In Botswana Ahead of CAF Showdown

Dynamos coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe is concerned about potential player burnout due to fixture congestion, as Dynamos remains the only local club competing in three different tournaments.
The Glamour Boys are striving to end the season strongly while defending their Chibuku Super Cup title, which they won in 2023, and aiming to advance to the group stage of the 2024/25 CAF Confederation Cup.
Dynamos recently resumed domestic competition with a 1-0 victory over Chegutu Pirates at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
While most local teams are observing the international break this week, Dynamos will face ZPC Kariba in a rescheduled Chibuku Super Cup match on Wednesday, September 4.
They are also scheduled to play another fixture on September 11, just four days before their away clash with Orapa United of Botswana in the CAF Confederation Cup second round.
The fixture backlog is expected to grow further, as their upcoming league matches against Ngezi Platinum Stars and Chicken Inn have been postponed.
Speaking in an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dembare-raise-red-flag-on-fixtures/">The Herald</a> Chigowe said ZIFA and the PSL should take Dynamos’ situation into account as the club navigates the challenges of competing in multiple tournaments. He said:
<blockquote>
Success invites a lot of pressure. The fact that we are still in the Confederation Cup means we have piled up fixtures going forward but we will try to work as scientifically as possible in terms of recovery management.
We have another game here at Rufaro on Wednesday (tomorrow); another humdinger because ZPC Kariba will be motivated to play Dynamos.
But we have to go over it. Hopefully, the mother body (ZIFA) and the PSL will look into the fixture congestion.
Dynamos are representing the nation and at times they must relax a little bit on some of the rules and allow us recovery time, especially the fact that we are asked to play (in Gweru) on September 11 when we have a (Confederation Cup) fixture on September 15.
</blockquote>
Chigowe said they are not underestimating Orapa United given that the Botswana club qualified for the second-round courtesy of a 3-1 win over Foresters of Seychelles. Said Chigowe:
<blockquote>
These boys are very solid in terms of defending their goal. They are a team that is prepared to work very hard, and I think all things being equal we will not underestimate Orapa United.
They are there on merit. They have qualified, so we will not take them lightly and we will give everything to make sure Zimbabwe is represented in the mini-league, and that will improve the ranking of our club sides in Africa.
If we do not get into the group stage, then all the effort that we have put in would have gone to waste.
</blockquote>
Chigowe anticipates a difficult finish in the domestic competitions where the Glamour Boys are seventh in the league table, 16 points adrift of log leaders Simba Bhora going into the last 10 games. He said:
<blockquote>
Everybody is motivated to play against Dynamos. So, we are looking forward to 10 gruelling league matches until the end of the season.
A team that has been losing even by wide margins will always feel motivated to play against Dynamos, and worse than we are playing higher in the Confederation Cup it has become a marker. So, we are a marked team. We expect much more of that.
</blockquote>
Ngezi Platinum Stars, who were recently eliminated from the CAF Champions League after a penalty shootout defeat to AS Maniema of the DRC, will host Bulawayo Chiefs in a rescheduled Chibuku Super Cup First Round match. The match will be played at Baobab Stadium on Thursday.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The coach of Dynamos, Lloyd "Mablanyo" Chigowe, is worried that his players might get too tired from playing too many games. Dynamos is playing in three different tournaments and has a lot of matches coming up. They recently won a game against Chegutu Pirates, but have more matches scheduled. Chigowe hopes that the football authorities will understand their situation and give them enough time to rest. He also knows that they have tough opponents coming up and need to play well. Other teams are also playing important matches, like Ngezi Platinum Stars and Bulawayo Chiefs. It's a busy time for all the teams!

Mablanyo Warns Of Player Burnout As Fixtures Pile Up For DeMbare

Dynamos are urgently seeking a stadium in either Malawi or Mozambique to avoid playing their CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round home tie against Orapa United in Botswana.
DeMbare previously hosted ZESCO United of Zambia at the National Stadium in Gaborone for the first preliminary round.
However, since Orapa United is based in Botswana, the Glamour Boys must find a different temporary venue to prevent giving their opponents a double home advantage.
Orapa United will first host Dynamos at the Obedi Itani Chitani Stadium in Francistown on September 13, followed by the “home” match a week later.
Dynamos has been informed through ZIFA that South African stadiums are unavailable, as they will be in use during that period.
Consequently, Dynamos has applied for the Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe, Malawi, and the Estádio Nacional do Zimpeto in Maputo, Mozambique, as potential alternatives.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dynamos-consider-malawi-moza-stadiums/">The Herald</a> on Thursday, Dynamos executive chairman Moses Maunganidze stated that they would only consider hosting Orapa United in Botswana if they are unable to secure a venue in neighbouring countries. He said:
<blockquote>
Our first preference was the Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka, Zambia but it is not available. Then we also tried the National Heroes Stadium in the same city which was used by our colleagues Ngezi Platinum Stars in the CAF Champions League first preliminary.
However, it is said to be undergoing some renovations and cannot be availed.
The only other option in Zambia is the Levi Mwanawasa in Ndola where we played ZESCO United away last week. But the logistics of getting there are very difficult.
So we have applied for stadiums in Malawi and Mozambique so far. We are waiting for responses.
We are doing all we can to host our match outside Botswana to avoid giving Orapa United an added advantage.
We will only do that when we see, beyond any doubt, that there is no other option. But we shouldn’t even find ourselves in that position.
</blockquote>
It is a national disgrace that a small country like Botswana, along with less developed nations such as Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique, boasts stadiums that meet CAF standards, while Zimbabwe lacks even one.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos is looking for a stadium in Malawi or Mozambique to play their CAF Confederation Cup match against Orapa United because the team is based in Botswana. They are trying to avoid giving their opponents a double home advantage. Dynamos couldn't play in South Africa since the stadiums were busy. If they can't find a stadium in neighboring countries, they will consider playing in Botswana. The team is waiting for responses and trying their best to host the match outside Botswana. Zimbabwe is being criticized for not having stadiums that meet CAF standards.

Dynamos Looks For Stadium In Malawi and Mozambique For CAF Confederation Cup Match

Dynamos FC have advanced to the first round of the CAF Confederation Cup after overcoming ZESCO United of Zambia in the preliminary stage.
DeMbare won the two-legged tie 1-0 on aggregate, following a goalless draw in the second leg played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia on Saturday.
Dynamos’ progression was secured thanks to midfielder Tanaka Shandirwa’s goal in the 30th minute of the first leg, which was played in Gaborone, Botswana.
After the second-leg stalemate, Dynamos coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe praised his team’s defensive resilience, which allowed them to protect the slender advantage gained in the first encounter. He said:
<blockquote>
In both encounters it was not easy coming face-to-face with the built of ZESCO players but credit to the boys; they stuck to the game plan. We enjoy this victory because we fought hard for it.
What we worked on defensively was to deny them scoring opportunities. We had a lot of information on ZESCO and we managed to do just that over the two legs.
</blockquote>
The Glamour Boys will now face Orapa United of Botswana in the first round of the CAF Confederation Cup. Orapa United advanced by defeating Foresters FC of Seychelles.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos FC won against ZESCO United and moved to the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup. They got through with a 1-0 score over two matches. The team's coach praised their defense. They will now play against Orapa United in the first round of the tournament. Orapa United defeated Foresters FC to get to this stage. The players worked hard to win and follow the game plan to stop their opponents from scoring.

Dynamos Reach CAF Confederation Cup First Round

Dynamos coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe says the club has a huge responsibility to represent Zimbabwe in CAF inter-club competitions, given Dynamos’ status as the most recognised Zimbabwean club on the African stage.
DeMbare will face off against Zambian club ZESCO United this Saturday in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup First preliminary round. The match will be played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia.
The Glamour Boys go into the match with a slender 1-0 advantage after beating their rivals at the Gaborone National Stadium in Botswana last weekend.
This marks the first time in a decade that Dynamos have featured in a CAF inter-club competition.
Addressing a pre-match press conference in Ndola on Friday, the 60-year-old Chigowe expressed confidence that his squad will draw inspiration from the achievements of their predecessors, who reached the final of the CAF Champions League in 1998. Said Chigowe (via <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dembare-aim-to-seal-tie-in-ndola/">The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
We intend to match them man for man. We believe they are a good side and we know they have got a recent history of success, not only in Zambia. But we are Dynamos; formed in 1963.
We have been to the final of the Champions League; we will play with pride tomorrow (today).
Dynamos is the soul and spirit of Zimbabwean football. When Dynamos goes to sleep, Zimbabwean football goes to sleep.
So, we are the flagbearers. We must lead the way in resuscitating football in Zimbabwe and we take the responsibility. We will give a good fight.
</blockquote>
Chigowe said he feels at home in Zambia, where he was born in 1964, in Kitwe. He said:
<blockquote>
We are one people. When we are here (in Zambia), we are at home. Myself, I was born here; my father had a farm here in Zambia in Mumbwa (district).
So, Zimbabwe and Zambia are Siamese twins, and it is Dynamos, who are always playing with adversity.
Every team in Zimbabwe want to beat Dynamos and for the greater part of last season, we were playing away from our home because our stadium was not certified.
So, we are used to playing away from home, that’s why we played in Gaborone, but we settled for that. 
What is going to matter tomorrow (today) is the application from both teams and may the better team win.
</blockquote>
Dynamos should expect a stern challenge from ZESCO United, the nine-time Zambian league champions, who will be a formidable opponent, particularly when playing at their home ground in Ndola.
ZESCO United coach George Lwandamina is determined to leverage the home advantage to overturn the first-leg deficit and secure ZESCO’s progression to the second preliminary round of the competition, scheduled for September. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s a do-or-die game, being a qualifier to the next round, that’s how it becomes important for us.
We have to raise the bar of Zambian football not just ZESCO, so we are the servants of football and that’s why I had to come back (to ZESCO).
They (Dynamos) are tactically good, but I am sure we have to do more than what we did in Gaborone if we are to go past them, and I am sure the players are ready to do that.
We have to do our business on the pitch. I know fans are also important, they are the 12th player, but when you don’t have fans, you still have to play.
When you have more fans, you still have to play and do your business.
</blockquote>
In a move to draw in more supporters, ZESCO United has slashed ticket prices for the second leg match, with the cheapest general admission ticket priced at just US$0.39 (K10), while the VIP tickets are available for US$6 (K150).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos coach Mablanyo says Dynamos is very important in Zimbabwean football. They will play ZESCO United in CAF competition. Dynamos has to represent Zimbabwe well. They lead at the moment. Chigowe is confident his team will do well. Both teams are preparing for a tough match. ZESCO United coach Lwandamina is ready for the game. Fans can attend the match at low prices. It will be a fierce competition between the two teams.

Dynamos Is The Soul And Spirit Of Zimbabwean Football - Mablanyo

Dynamos secured a 1-0 victory over ZESCO United of Zambia in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round at Botswana National Stadium on Sunday.
Midfielder Tanaka Shandirwa was the match-winner, scoring with a header in the 30th minute, marking a rare win for DeMbare in a season where they have largely drawn their matches.
This victory also marked the first for interim coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe, who took over from Genesis Mangombe just two weeks ago.
Chigowe, who recently said he was targetting the group stage of the competition, anticipates a fierce response from the Zambians in the return leg, scheduled for Saturday. Said Chigowe (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200031142/dynamos-win-on-african-safari-return">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
It’s always gratifying when you get the maximum points. It was a difficult encounter, but credit to the boys for grinding out the much-needed result.
My clarion call to the boys now is not to be fooled by this win and rest on their laurels because one thing for sure is that ZESCO will be coming back in full force and their being at home this time around makes the puzzle very difficult for us.
</blockquote>
Chigowe said DeMbare should consistently participate in CAF inter-club competitions. Dynamos is the only Zimbabwean team to have reached the finals of the CAF Champions League, a tournament regarded as more prestigious than the CAF Confederation Cup. Said Chigowe:
<blockquote>
Dynamos is a huge institution; we belong to the big boys league, but be that as it may, we will fight until the end.
We have walked on a similar road before reaching the finals of the Champions League, so this is certainly where we belong, and we will fight tooth and nail to ensure that we get the recognition that we deserve in African football.
</blockquote>
Ngezi Platinum Stars fought to a goalless draw against AS Maniema of DRC in their CAF Champions League preliminary round fixture on Saturday.
The reigning Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) champions hosted the first leg in Zambia, as no stadium in Zimbabwe meets CAF certification for hosting football matches.
The second leg is set to be played in the DRC on August 25, 2024, with the winner advancing to face Petro de Luanda of Angola, who received a bye in the preliminary round.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos won 1-0 against ZESCO United in CAF Confederation Cup. Midfielder Tanaka Shandirwa scored the winning goal. Interim coach Lloyd Chigowe is happy but expects a tough second leg match. He wants Dynamos to play in more CAF competitions. Ngezi Platinum Stars drew 0-0 against AS Maniema in CAF Champions League. They will play the second leg in the DRC. The winner will face Petro de Luanda of Angola. Zimbabwean teams are doing well in African football.

Dynamos Defeats ZESCO, Ngezi Platinum Stars Held By AS Maniema

Dynamos interim coach Lloyd “Mablanyo” Chigowe says the team is aiming to qualify for the group stages of the 2024/25 CAF Confederations Cup.
DeMbare secured their spot in the competition after winning the 2023 Chibuku Super Cup. Chigowe and his squad will host Zambian side ZESCO United at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana, for the preliminary round first leg on Sunday, 18 August.
The Glamour Boys will play their home fixture in Botswana due to the lack of a CAF-certified stadium in Zimbabwe for international matches.
Chigowe, who was recently appointed as Dynamos’ caretaker coach following the resignation of Genesis Mangombe, said their goal is to reach the mini-league stage of the tournament. Said Chigowe:
<blockquote>
We will give it our all to get into the mini-league stage of the competition. We must leave sweat and blood on the pitch for us to achieve that objective. It will not be easy but we must dream for us to get to a point. Without a dream, we will not achieve it.
</blockquote>
The winner between Dynamos and ZESCO United over the two legs will face either Foresters FC of Seychelles or Orapa United of Botswana in the first qualifying round.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Dynamos soccer team wants to reach the group stages of the CAF Confederations Cup in 2024/25. They won a cup to qualify. Their first game is against ZESCO United in Botswana. Their goal is to reach the mini-league stage. The coach says they will give their best and work hard to achieve this dream. The winner will face other teams in the next round. They will play their home game in Botswana because Zimbabwe doesn't have a proper stadium.

Chigowe Targets CAF Confederations Cup Group Stages

Dynamos chairman, Moses Maunganidze, has heaped praise on the club’s main sponsor, Sakunda Holdings, for supporting their CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
The energy company has covered all costs for DeMbare’s upcoming match against ZESCO United from Zambia, which will be held at the Botswana National Stadium on Sunday.
Dynamos CEO Jonathan Mashingaidze led a team that left Harare on Wednesday to get ready for the team’s arrival in Botswana.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/sakunda-oil-dembares-caf-quest/">Zimpapers Sports</a>, Maunganidze praised Sakunda Holdings for their financial help. Said Maunganidze. He said:
<blockquote>
I think we are ready for a return to continental club football. Above all, I want to thank our anchor sponsor, Sakunda Holdings, they have done extremely well. They have taken care of all our needs, and I need to stress our appreciation to them.
</blockquote>
The Glamour Boys will spend a week in Gaborone and then fly out to Ndola in Zambia for the return leg. Said Maunganidze:
<blockquote>
The team is leaving tomorrow (today) for Botswana, via Johannesburg and we will spend seven days in Botswana.
After playing on the 18th of August, we will leave Gaborone on the 22nd for Ndola via Johannesburg again.
Then on the 24th, we play our return leg. We leave Zambia for Zimbabwe on the 25th.
</blockquote>
Maunganidze revealed that Botswana premiership club Township Rollers has allowed DeMbare to use their training ground and other facilities, and they provided discounts on important logistics.
Tendani Sebata, a businessman from Beitbridge, owns 80% of Township Rollers, which is Botswana’s most successful club.
Sebata, who resides in Gaborone, said that he wants to see Zimbabwean football grow. He said:
<blockquote>
Since we have a club in Botswana, I feel Dynamos being a team from my country should enjoy this benefit. Township Rollers will assist Dynamos in settling.
Dynamos will also be free to use our training facilities and we will also assist them with other logistical issues.
</blockquote>
DeMbare is expecting hundreds of local supporters to travel to Gaborone and rally behind them as there are thousands of Zimbabweans living in Botswana. Said Maunganidze:
<blockquote>
We have also arranged two buses to ferry supporters from Harare to Gaborone, over and above what the supporters have done on their own.
We need to have the numbers in Gaborone and I am happy that we also have supporters taking off from Bulawayo while others will connect from Johannesburg.
</blockquote>
This is the first time in ten years that Dynamos is playing in a CAF inter-club competition. They earned this spot by beating league champions Ngezi Platinum Stars 2-0 in the 2023 Chibuku Super Cup final at Baobab in December.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Sakunda Holdings is helping Dynamos play in a big football game in Africa. They paid for everything, and Dynamos are very thankful. They will play in Botswana and Zambia. Another team in Botswana is also helping them. Dynamos hopes for a lot of supporters to come to the game. This is the first time in 10 years that Dynamos plays in a big competition in Africa. They are very excited and grateful for all the help they are getting.

Sakunda Holdings Bankrolls Dynamos' CAF Campaign

Dynamos head coach Genesis Mangombe has appealed to the team’s fans in Bulawayo to get behind the players when they take on Bulawayo Chiefs at Barburfields Stadium on Sunday.
Despite the club executive’s unwavering backing, Mangombe has faced growing discontent from a significant portion of Dynamos’ fanbase due to the team’s poor results this season.
Reports suggest the coach has also lost the support of some senior players, who are leading a faction of players unhappy with his methods.
In his plea to the Bulawayo supporters, Mangombe acknowledged that the team is struggling to convert chances into goals, but insisted they are not playing as badly as the results suggest. He said (via the<a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/mangombes-last-stand-can-he-win-back-dembares-faith/"> Chronicle</a>):
<blockquote>
We respect our fans. They should come in their numbers and rally behind the team. Our fans in Bulawayo have always had our back, and we hope for the same on Sunday.
The fans are our 12th man, and they help us a lot. Hopefully, they come in their numbers and support the team on Sunday as they also get a glimpse of the team that will represent us in Africa.
So far, we are playing well. Our problem has been the fact that we are not converting our chances. Against Bulawayo Chiefs, I feel it will be an open game for everyone, which will make it an interesting one and a good game of football.
Most of the teams we have played have been employing defensive tactics when they play against us, but we are hoping for a more open game on Sunday.
They have new players who are full of energy, so we have to contain them and use our experience to punish them.
</blockquote>
Dynamos will face a depleted Bulawayo Chiefs side after some of its key players left for other clubs during the mid-season transfer window.
Tatenda Ndlovu and Malvin Sithole left to join Wangu Mazodze in the Central Region Division One league, while Nkosiyabo Masilela and the experienced Xolisani Moyo joined TelOne.
Highlanders got Never Rauzhi on loan, while defender and Captain Malvern Hativagoni is now with Ngezi Platinum.
Midfielder Moses Muchenje might be out for the rest of the season after incurring a serious injury.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos coach Genesis Mangombe is asking fans in Bulawayo to support the team as they play against Bulawayo Chiefs. Some fans are unhappy with the team's results. Mangombe believes they are playing well but need to score more goals. The game against Bulawayo Chiefs might be more open and exciting. Some key players from Bulawayo Chiefs have left the team for other clubs. It might be a challenging game for Dynamos but Mangombe is hopeful for a good match. Fans are the team's 12th man and their support is important.

Mangombe Appeals For Fan Support As DeMbare Faces Bulawayo Chiefs

Dynamos FC chairman Moses Maunganidze has refuted allegations that the club enlisted the services of a traditional healer (sangoma) ahead of their recent match against arch-rivals Highlanders.
Reports had surfaced suggesting that the Harare giants had paid $1,000 to a witchdoctor in an attempt to influence the outcome of the high-profile clash.
However, despite this alleged ritual, Dynamos ultimately lost the match 2-0 at Rufaro Stadium.
In an interview, Maunganidze said Dynamos does not engage the services of sangomas but rather works with Christian pastors.
At the same time, he asserted that the club respects the freedom of conscience of its players. Maunganidze:
<blockquote>
I am speaking as chairman of Dynamos, that Dynamos doesn’t subscribe to such practices.
Week in, week out we have allowed that we bring to the training session pastors from different denominations to come and pray with our boys, whilst aware of the rights of these players as enshrined in the Constitution of this country.
We as a club, we are saying no to such practices (of paying sangomas), it’s not part of us. This I’m saying on behalf of Dynamos Football Club.
</blockquote>
The reports of Dynamos FC allegedly paying a substantial sum of money to a sangoma ahead of their match against Highlanders have drawn significant public interest, particularly given the club’s widely publicised financial difficulties.
Dynamos players had boycotted training for several days before the match, protesting unpaid bonuses and signing-on fees.
This meant the team had only managed to hold two practice sessions before the highly anticipated “Battle of Zimbabwe” match.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The chairman of Dynamos FC said they didn't use traditional healers for their match, but worked with Christian pastors. They lost 2-0 to Highlanders even though it was rumored they paid a witchdoctor. The club believes in freedom of religion for its players. The team had financial issues before the game, with players protesting unpaid money. They only had two practice sessions before the match. The story attracted a lot of attention from the public. Maunganidze insisted Dynamos does not believe in witchcraft and does not pay sangomas.

Dynamos Work With Church Pastors, Not Sangomas - DeMbare Chairman

Dynamos has rejected reports that it solicited the services of a sangoma ahead of its Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) match against rivals Highlanders on Sunday.
According to previous reports, Dynamos allegedly paid $1,000 to the sangoma to influence the outcome of what is widely considered the biggest fixture in the local premiership in their favour.
However, Dynamos ultimately lost the match 0-2 at Rufaro Stadium.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 18th, Dynamos categorically denied enlisting the services of a sangoma for the match against Highlanders or any of their other league games.
The club said it relies on proven scientific methods and training regimens to prepare for matches, rather than resorting to unorthodox or supernatural approaches to try and influence the outcome of matches. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
Dynamos Football Club would like to distance the Club from the alleged enlisting of the services of a sangoma ahead of the Battle of Zimbabwe Part 2 match between Dynamos and Highlanders played on Sunday 14th July 2024 at Rufaro Stadium and in any of our league matches that we play. The Club would like to state the following:
1. The Club believes that football is scientific and as such all our energy is directed towards the application of scientific methods.
2. The engagement of a sangoma, if any, was never done by the Club as such practices would violate the varied spiritual beliefs held by our players. The Club is alive to the Constitution of Zimbabwe which provides for freedom of conscience which includes freedom of thought, opinion, religion or belief. Therefore the Club can not impose or violate the rights of it’s players by engaging a sangoma.
3. Investing in Iron Age practices in this day and age would inhibit the growth of the Club and as such the Club would always strive to embrace modern football practices.
</blockquote>
In 2017, former Dynamos captain Memory Mucherahowa told the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40086586">BBC</a> the club encouraged the use of juju, adding that as captain of the club, it was his duty to make sure the juju rituals were followed. He said:
<blockquote>
I’m not saying juju works but it was part of football when I was playing and I’m sure it’s part of football even today.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos soccer team says they did not hire a healer to help them win against Highlanders. They rely on science and training to win matches. They think using traditional methods is not good for the team, and goes against players' beliefs. They lost the match 0-2 despite the rumors. The team believes in modern methods and does not want to use ancient practices. They want to grow and be successful through science, not superstition.

"We Believe In Science", Dynamos Denies Hiring Sangoma For Highlanders Match

Dynamos Football Club reportedly engages the services of traditional healers, known as sangomas, before every match they play.
According to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/dembares-secret-group-of-sangomas/">H-Metro</a>, Dynamos paid a substantial sum of US$1,000 to a sangoma ahead of their recent match against rivals Highlanders at Rufaro Stadium. However, despite this ritual practice, Dynamos went on to lose the game 0-2.
The club is said to maintain a “pool” of sangomas that they consult based on the specific requirements of each match.
These spiritual practitioners are reported to typically charge at least US$500 per game, though the fee can be higher depending on the importance of the fixture.
In the case of the Highlanders match, the sangoma used was reportedly paid US$1,000 due to the high-profile nature of the encounter.
The sangoma claimed that Dynamos had been “bewitched,” which was preventing their strikeforce from scoring as many goals as the coaches would have liked.
Furthermore, the report suggests that Dynamos have a designated sangoma based in Bulawayo who is responsible for overseeing their matches in that region of the country. Said a source:
<blockquote>
We call him Dr Maphosa, he is from Bulawayo, and it is said that the club owes him US$14 000 in unpaid dues and he is not happy about this and we are told that explains why we are struggling.
There is also a sangoma from Mufakose for the team, he charges US$500 per game and there is also another sangoma in Chihota.
The money which is paid to the sangomas is listed under match expenses as there are no receipts to support whether the sangomas have really been paid or not.
</blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, the role and influence of sangomas remain deeply entrenched within the country’s cultural landscape.
This reverence for sangomas has even extended into the digital realm, with a newer generation of spiritualists embracing social media including platforms like TikTok to connect with a wider audience, offering guidance, divination, and various spiritual remedies to their followers.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A famous football team in Zimbabwe, Dynamos FC, pays traditional healers called sangomas before each game. They paid one sangoma $1,000 before a match against Highlanders but still lost. The club has a group of sangomas they can choose from for different matches. Sangomas usually charge at least $500 per game, but the fee can be more for important games. One sangoma said Dynamos was cursed, affecting their ability to score goals. The club owes a lot of money to some sangomas. Sangomas play an important role in Zimbabwe's culture, and some are even using social media to reach more people.

Dynamos Has A "Pool" Of Sangomas Paid Before Every Match | Report

Dynamos reportedly received less than half of the total revenue they generated during their match against Highlanders at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
According to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/dembare-get-less-than-half-of-match-day-revenue/">H-Metro</a>, the game produced a gross income of US$48,049, but the financially struggling DeMbare received just US$23,864 from this total.
Among the direct match expenses deducted from the revenue was US$1,103.93 Dynamos paid for the cost of tickets supplied by the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to the clubs. Clubs are required to pay a percentage for each of the tickets sold at the entry points.
A PSL club official, who wished to remain anonymous, told H-Metro that the current arrangement is not fair for the clubs, given the challenging economic environment in which they operate. Said the official:
<blockquote>
It’s a controversial subject because you would expect that the club would have the biggest chunk of the revenue since the teams are the star attractions here.
Everyone else is just supporting and these are not the parties that should get the biggest chunk of the earnings from gate receipts.
People come to watch the players, who are paid by these clubs, and we should find a way we can protect these clubs, especially given our difficult environment.
We can say that okay, there are two games where Dynamos are likely to get a substantial income from gate takings all season – against CAPS and Highlanders.
So, we can say during those two games, we reduce the levies that we pile on these clubs and they don’t have to pay for the cost of tickets and so forth.
In all the other games they will pay as usual and we can use the same model for the others like FC Platinum, Ngezi Platinum, and Manica Diamonds.
All of them will know that they have one or two games, during the season, where they can maximise on earnings.
</blockquote>
Dynamos players only conducted training for two days leading up to their match against Highlanders in protest of unpaid bonuses and signing-on fees.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos did not get all the money they made from the match against Highlanders. They got less than half. The total revenue was $48,049, but they only received $23,864. They had to pay for tickets and other expenses. A club official said the current arrangement is not fair for clubs. Players did not train much before the match because they were upset about not getting paid. The official suggested that clubs should get more money from big games to help them in tough economic times.

Dynamos Gets Less Than Half Of Matchday Revenue

Dynamos head coach Genesis Mangombe acknowledged that the team needs more prolific strikers, but said the club’s current financial constraints have prevented them from strengthening the forward line, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/dynamos-fails-to-finance-mid-season-transfer-targets/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
DeMbare suffered a 2-0 defeat against rivals Highlanders on their home turf on Sunday and has registered the second-highest number of draws (9) so far this season, just two fewer than ZPC Kariba.
The club’s three strikers – Namibian Sadney Urikhob, who has scored two goals, Elie Ilunga with one goal, and Emmanuel Paga with three goals – have collectively contributed only 6 out of the 16 total goals scored by the team.
However, Dynamos’ ongoing financial crisis has restricted the coach’s ability to reinforce the striking department during the mid-season transfer window. Mangombe was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
At times you want to beef up but you also need to look at the calibre of players you need.
If resources permitting we could look for a finisher but unfortunately, they are not.
So we have to work with what is available at the present moment.
We have several strikers here whom I believe with time will score goals.
Clinical is the only problem left so we are forced to work with what is there and make sure that these strikers score goals.
</blockquote>
Last week, the team only conducted training for two days leading up to their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) match against Highlanders, which they ultimately lost 2-0.
The were players boycotting practice sessions in protest of unpaid bonuses and signing-on fees.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos coach can't get new strikers because the team doesn't have enough money. The team lost a game to Highlanders. Their current strikers are not scoring enough goals. The team couldn't practice properly because players were protesting about not getting paid. The coach believes that with time, the current strikers will improve. They lost a big game because they couldn't practice enough. Financial problems are stopping the team from getting better players.

Dynamos Fails To Bolster Squad Amid Financial Woes

Dynamos Football Club reportedly paid US$1,000 to a traditional healer (sangoma) ahead of their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against bitter rivals Highlanders at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
According to a source quoted by <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/dynamos-splash-us1k-on-sangoma-still-crash-to-defeat-against-bosso-sangoma-wants-us2k-to-cleanse-dembare-house/">H-Metro</a>, some within Dynamos’ leadership believed the sangoma’s rituals could tilt the result in their favour.
The match, often referred to as the “Battle of Zimbabwe,” is considered the biggest fixture on the local football calendar. Said the source:
<blockquote>
Given the issues that were happening with the boys (the players), who were boycotting training, there was a feeling that such a payment was not the right thing to do for the club at the moment.
However, the owners of the club said that this was a tradition at Dynamos and it was not going to be changed simply because the players were boycotting training.
They said these player boycotts have been happening as long as they can remember and they come and go and this cannot be used as an excuse to stop payments to the sangoma.
It was like they were saying that paying the sangoma was more important, in terms of getting the result which we wanted from the game against Highlanders, than the training itself.
The message was that as long as we satisfied the sangoma then we did not need to worry about the issues that had happened at training because the club would still be in a position to compete against Highlanders.
Of course, it didn’t happen like that because we lost that game 2-0 and the performance of the boys showed that they had been affected by the issues which had happened on the training field.
We don’t know what the sangoma said about the result because we never get to meet him given he is only known to a few people at the club.
</blockquote>
The source criticized the club’s leadership for their decision to consult the sangoma, saying with this kind of leadership and their ancient beliefs, the club probably deserved to lose the game against Highlanders. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The sangoma got his dues and, maybe, if you were going to ask him how we ended up losing he would say that without his intervention, we were going to lose maybe 5-0, I don’t know.
But what we cannot hide is the fact that we are concentrating on things which don’t matter in this age and era when other clubs, of our magnitude, are investing in sports science.
We are still stuck in the old ways of doing business instead of asking ourselves why we have not won the league in 10 years if the so-called powers of these sangomas really work.
It’s a reflection of where we are today as a club and maybe we deserve the result that we got on Sunday.
</blockquote>
If the sangoma had been paid US$ 1,000 for each of Dynamos’ matches this season, he would have pocketed a total of US$18,000 – more than half the monthly salary of the club’s highest-paid player, who earns US$1,800 per month.
The sangoma is now demanding an additional US$2,000 to “cleanse the team of bad luck.”
In 2017, former Dynamos captain Memory Mucherahowa told the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40086586">BBC</a> the club encouraged the use of juju, adding that as captain of the club, it was his duty to make sure the juju rituals were followed. He said:
<blockquote>
I’m not saying juju works but it was part of football when I was playing and I’m sure it’s part of football even today.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos Football Club paid US$1,000 to a traditional healer (sangoma) before a big game against Highlanders. Some leaders thought the rituals could help them win. But they lost the game 2-0. The club has a tradition of consulting sangomas. The source criticized the leadership, saying they should focus on modern methods like sports science. The sangoma is now asking for another US$2,000 to cleanse the team. In 2017, a former captain said juju rituals were part of football. The club's highest-paid player earns US$1,800 per month.

Dynamos Pays US$1 000 To Sangoma Ahead of "Battle Of Zimbabwe" Match

Highlanders completed a league double over their arch-rivals Dynamos in the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season. The latest victory came with a 2-0 win at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Goals from McKinnon Mushore and Godfrey Makaruse, scored either side of half-time, secured maximum points and bragging rights for Bosso in the second edition of the Battle of Zimbabwe.
This result followed Highlanders’ 2-1 win over Dynamos at Barbourfields Stadium in March 2024.
Highlanders coach Kelvin Kaindu expressed satisfaction with the victory, highlighting his team’s ability to keep a clean sheet.
<blockquote>
I think there is nothing better in the league than for you to do a double against Dynamos. We managed to score two goals and we kept a clean sheet.
I think we played well and we could have come out with a bigger scoreline, especially looking at the number of scoring chances that we had.
We knew Dynamos would come at us in the first 15 minutes and that’s what they did. But we had to maintain our composure and after that, we started playing our normal game.
[This win] gives us a lot of motivation. We had played a lot of draws during the season. This is how we started in the first round; we managed to pick up maximum points.
We have done it again in the second round and we remain positive. It’s a big win for the team, but we must remain focused.
</blockquote>
Dynamos coach Genesis Mangombe, on the other hand, blamed his players’ boycott of training in the lead-up to the match over unpaid bonuses and signing-on fees for the loss. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s so painful, and as a coach, you don’t want to lose six points to the same team in one season. But it’s a game of football. At times we have these results.
But some things are beyond my control. If you saw the opponents’ intensity, it means they were well-prepared for us.
We failed to train and they capitalised on fast goal attacks. We tried to contain them but at the same time, we lost some energy in the process.
Maybe it was because of the lack of training. Our fitness level today was not spot on.
</blockquote>
The victory sees Highlanders climb to 29 points, 9 behind log leaders FC Platinum on 38 points after 18 games.
Dynamos, meanwhile, are tied on 24 points with Herentals and Chicken Inn, while CAPS United, Bikita Minerals, and Bulawayo Chiefs have all accumulated 23 points each.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Highlanders beat Dynamos 2-0 in a soccer match. The win was their second against Dynamos this season. The coach of Highlanders was happy with his team's performance. Dynamos lost because their players did not train before the game. Highlanders now have 29 points in the league. Dynamos have 24 points, tying with two other teams. Highlanders are 9 points behind the league leaders.

Highlanders Complete League Double Over Dynamos

Dynamos supporter Adam Mukwasi has been summoned to Harare Central Police Station for allegedly organizing an unsanctioned demonstration at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
According to Mukwasi, the Police summoned him around 11 AM on Saturday, following a report made by the Dynamos leadership that he was planning a protest at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Mukwasi is accused of mobilizing the team’s supporters to demonstrate against Dynamos chairman Moses Maunganidze, who is alleged to have mismanaged the club.
When contacted by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/sport/article/200029572/dynamos-supporter-mukwasi-summoned-over-demo">The Standard</a>, Mukwasi confirmed that he had been summoned and warned that he would face prosecution if any demonstration took place at Rufaro Stadium. He said:
<blockquote>
I have been summoned to Harare Central Police and strongly warned that I will be brought before the courts should there be disturbances at Rufaro. The thing is, if anyone is organising that, it is not me.
</blockquote>
Mukwasi reported to Harare Central Police Station in the company of his lawyers.
Dynamos are scheduled to host rivals Highlanders at Rufaro Stadium later on Sunday in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) match.
Mukwasi was allegedly mobilising the team’s supporters to protest against Dynamos’ leadership during this fixture.
This development comes after a four-day strike by Dynamos players over unpaid bonuses and signing-on fees, which ended on Wednesday.
Following the strike, a section of the team’s supporters distributed flyers around the city centre, calling for the resignation of the club’s executive for allegedly mismanaging the club.
Mukwasi has been identified as the ringleader of the supporters and is accused of sponsoring the printing and distribution of the flyers.
When Dynamos and Highlanders last met in the first instalment of the “Battle of Zimbabwe” in Bulawayo, Highlanders emerged victorious with a 1-0 score.
Currently, Dynamos have amassed 24 points after 17 matches, placing them in sixth position on the PSL league table, two points behind Highlanders.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A Dynamos supporter named Adam Mukwasi might get in trouble with the police for planning a protest at Rufaro Stadium. The protest was supposed to be against the club's chairman for mismanaging things. The police warned Mukwasi that he could be prosecuted if the protest happens. Dynamos players recently went on strike, and some supporters want the club's management to resign. Mukwasi is accused of being the leader behind this protest. The team is also going to play against their rivals, Highlanders, soon. The police are keeping an eye on the situation to prevent any trouble at the match.

Police Summon Prominent Dynamos Supporter Over Planned Demo At Rufaro Stadium

Dynamos will face Zambia’s ZESCO United in the 2024/25 first Preliminary Round of the CAF Confederation Cup, scheduled for August.
If they defeat the Zambian side, the 2023 Chibuku Cup winners will then proceed to the second Preliminary Round in September, where they’ll meet either Foresters FC from Seychelles or Orapa United from Botswana.
Speaking to <a href="https://bmetro.co.zw/zesco-will-fallmangombe/">Zimpapers Sport</a> on Thursday, Dynamos’ head coach, Genesis “Kaka” Mangombe, expressed confidence that with proper preparation, they can overcome ZESCO in the upcoming games. He said:
<blockquote>
We have been drawn against ZESCO, they are a good side. This means we have to be very prepared and address our grey areas since they are not pushovers.
It’s game on and we have to be prepared and be ready to battle.
If we tick all the right boxes, ZESCO is not going to be a problem for us they are going to fall.
We need to beef up our squad, and we need strikers with even some coming from abroad.
But we have a short space of time as they need to gel in the system since the days are near.
</blockquote>
The Glamour Boys faced a setback the last time they were slated to participate in continental club football. They withdrew from the CAF Champions League in 2015, citing financial challenges.
Meanwhile, the 2023 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions, Ngezi Platinum Stars, have been paired with AS Maniema from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the CAF Champions League.
In the first leg, Ngezi will play as the home team, and then they’ll travel to Central Africa for the return leg.
The winner of this matchup will go on to face Petro de Luanda from Angola, who received a bye in the preliminary round.
Both draws were determined based on the teams’ geographical proximity.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos will play ZESCO United in the CAF Confederation Cup. If they win, they will face Foresters FC or Orapa United. Coach Mangombe believes they can win with proper preparation. Ngezi Platinum Stars will play AS Maniema in the CAF Champions League. The winner will play Petro de Luanda. Dynamos withdrew in 2015 due to financial problems. Matches will be played in August and September. Teams were drawn based on location. Both teams are hopeful for success but need to work hard to win.

Dynamos, Ngezi Discover Opponents In CAF Inter-club Tournaments

Dynamos players resumed training on Wednesday at Alex Sports Club after the club’s executive assured them that their payments would be deposited by the end of the day.
The team is scheduled to face Highlanders in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
Later on Wednesday, several players informed Zimpapers Sports Hub that they had indeed received their payments.
Despite their recent strike, the players had agreed to train out of respect for the upcoming crucial match against Highlanders.
The dispute arose from unpaid winning bonuses and signing-on fees, with players owed approximately US$1,050 each for those who featured in all 17 matches during the first half of the season.
Dynamos typically pays US$100 for a win, which increases to US$200 for matches against top teams like Highlanders, CAPS United, FC Platinum, and Ngezi Platinum Stars.
For draws, the club pays US$50, which rises to US$100 against the aforementioned top sides.
So far this season, Dynamos has secured five wins (against Bikita Minerals, TelOne, Chegutu Pirates, Arenel Movers, and GreenFuel), totalling US$500 per player.
They have also recorded nine draws, including matches against CAPS United and Ngezi Platinum Stars, amounting to US$550 per player.
In total, certain players are owed up to US$1,050 each.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/back-to-business-for-dembare/">The Herald</a>, Dynamos head coach Genesis Mangombe said despite the strike, the players are ready for the “Battle of Zimbabwe” match. He said:
<blockquote>
These are footballers and the life of a footballer you need to be training all the time. And you need to stay fit.
The players have been training throughout, although it has been individual and when you train individually there is no teamwork. But as far as fitness is concerned there are no issues.
We conducted fitness tests today (yesterday), to see if they are ready to play a blockbuster match and most of them are ready, save for a few.
We have lost four days of training so we are going to push tomorrow (today) and Friday as well.
Thumbs up to the boys for understanding the situation. They are going to do business come Sunday and we are ready to go.
But what is there is that they have agreed to train because we have a big game ahead.
</blockquote>
Dynamos are currently sixth on the league table with 24 points, trailing leaders FC Platinum by 11 points.
Their inconsistent form has prompted some fans to call for Mangombe’s dismissal.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos players started training after they were promised payment. They have a big match against Highlanders coming up. Some players have already been paid. They were upset about not getting bonuses and fees. They are owed up to $1,050 each. The coach says the players are ready for the match. Even though they didn't train for four days, they are working hard to prepare. Dynamos is sixth in the league, and some fans want the coach to be fired. The players are focused on getting ready for the important match.

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