Andrew Mbeba-The maverick leader who lit up a quiet season

Stanford Chiwanga, Quality Editor

IN a season where Highlanders neither flirted with relegation (until now) nor mounted a serious title challenge, Andrew Mbeba emerged as a paradoxical force — equal parts captain, enforcer, and entertainer. While the spotlight naturally gravitates towards players like Emmanuel Jalai of Dynamos, who is leading his side through a dramatic survival battle, or Kelvin Moyo of champions Scottland, whose consistency anchored a historic debut title run, Mbeba’s brilliance lies in his ability to make an impact even when the stakes seem subdued.

Mbeba’s season began with a shift in leadership. With Ariel Sibanda sidelined and Peter Muduhwa departing for Scottland, the armband was handed to Mbeba — a move that proved inspired. He embraced the role with grit and charisma, leading Bosso through a transitional phase with a blend of tactical discipline and emotional fire. His performance against Kwekwe United, where Highlanders romped to a 4–0 victory at Barbourfields Stadium, was emblematic of his influence. Though Brighton “Maninja” Ncube stole headlines with a hat-trick, it was Mbeba’s defensive organisation and crowd-stirring theatrics that set the tone.

Mbeba’s style is not for the faint-hearted. He is infamous for the “dark arts” — elbows, provocations, and the occasional red card — but these are not mere acts of indiscipline. They are calculated expressions of leadership, designed to unsettle opponents and ignite the Bosso faithful. At Barbourfields, where football is theatre, Mbeba is both villain and hero. His antics against Scottland FC in the 1–1 draw were a masterclass in psychological warfare, frustrating Kelvin Moyo and disrupting Scottland’s rhythm.

Beyond the drama, Mbeba’s technical contributions are undeniable. He has often played through knocks and fatigue. His defensive stats may not dazzle on paper, but his positional awareness, aerial dominance, and ability to marshal the backline kept Highlanders competitive. In the 2–0 win over CAPS United, Mbeba was instrumental in shutting down attacks and initiating transitions from deep, showcasing his underrated ball-playing ability.

Mbeba’s selection for end-of-season honours cannot be based on reputation alone; it is firmly rooted in a series of standout performances that highlighted his all-action, influential style. In the fiercely contested Battle of Zimbabwe match against Dynamos at Barbourfields, he delivered a defensive masterclass — marshalling the back four, making crucial tackles, and effectively neutralising Dynamos’ attacking threats. Notably, he also provided the assist for Brian Mlotshwa’s goal from a set-piece, underlining his dual-threat capability.

In the 1–0 away victory over Herentals, Mbeba was again immense, leading a disciplined defensive unit that secured a clean sheet and three vital points. His leadership and composure under pressure were instrumental in that result. Perhaps most emblematic of his ability to rise to the occasion was his goal against champions Scottland — a moment of individual brilliance that not only helped Bosso sail through to the Chibuku Super Cup semi-finals but also reinforced his knack for delivering when it matters most. These performances collectively underscore why Mbeba’s inclusion among the season’s elite is not only justified but necessary.

Critics may argue that Highlanders’ lukewarm season weakens his candidacy. But football greatness is not solely measured by silverware or survival. It is also about presence, influence, and moments that transcend the scoreboard. Mbeba has delivered those in abundance. He has been Bosso’s heartbeat, their shield, and their spark. In a season lacking extremes, he provided edge.

The Soccer Stars of the Year calendar should not be a roll call of champions and unlikely survivors alone. It should also celebrate those who led with distinction. Andrew Mbeba, the maverick vice-captain of Highlanders FC, deserves his place among the elite.