Online Reporter
Tadious Manyepo
Zimpapers Sports Hub
HERENTALS College owner and player Innocent Benza has applauded the Government for ensuring the National Sports Stadium is now ready for use.
Sustained efforts from the Portfolio Committee for Sports, chaired by CAPS United president Farai Jere, finally yielded the desired results with the renovation of the National Sports Stadium, with Government and Sakunda Holdings playing a big role in making the dream come true.
And Benza, a legislator who has also been a prominent member of that committee, was happier when the Warriors lined up for the first time in five years in front of their fans to face DRC on Monday.
“I am very excited,” said Benza.
“We applaud the Government, and all parties involved who ensured the stadium is now up there.
“We wouldn’t want to take the glory, but as a Committee we are very happy that our efforts gave us results.”
The cheapest ticket was going for US$10, for fans to watch the Warriors .
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between the Warriors and DR Congo, was sold out almost 24 hours before kick-off.
For five good years, the Warriors were homeless, playing home fixtures in South Africa, Uganda and Rwanda.
However, there were unfortunate incidents, especially after the death of a fan who was run over by a police dispersal vehicle before the match.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has since issued a statement, saying investigations are underway.
The Zimbabwe Football Association yesterday also indicated that a feedback meeting has been conducted to gather all details on the organisational flaws experienced, leading to a stampede outside the venue, just before the game and the pitch invasion.
The sight of some fans captured on video damaging water sprinklers has however, been condemned by football stakeholders.
