Online Reporter
Tawah Munthali-Zimpapers Sports Hub
JUNIOR BUNJIRA could hardly have asked for a bigger stage on which to celebrate his 23rd birthday.
The CAPS United winger turns 23 today, the same day the Green Machine face Dynamos in the famous Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Harare derby at Rufaro.
Almost 30 years ago, Junior’s father, Alois Bunjira, was part of the celebrated 1996 CAPS United side that ended a 15-year wait for the league championship.
Alois, also a winger then, played a key role in that campaign and finished the season as the Premiership’s Golden Boot winner.
Now Junior is building his own career in the same green colours, fully aware of the expectations that come with the Bunjira name.
“I know the name on my back comes with expectations, but I try not to put too much pressure on myself,” he said. I just want to work hard, improve and give everything I have for CAPS United.”
Junior goes into the derby with added confidence after scoring against Manica Diamonds in the ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup last week.
“That goal adds to my motivation as an individual going into the big game against Dynamos,” he said.
CAPS United will also be banking on their supporters as they seek victory over their traditional rivals.
“It is a big game for us, and we are banking on the support of the CAPS United fans,” Junior said.
His relationship with the Green Machine goes much deeper than the two seasons he has spent at the club.
Junior joined CAPS United from Golden Eagles ahead of the 2024 season, but says Makepekepe had been part of his life long before he became a professional footballer.
“CAPS United is more than just a football club to me. It is a family club that I have supported since I was a child,” he said.
His father remains an important part of his football journey.
Alois and Junior regularly talk about the game, particularly after matches, and those conversations have become an important part of the youngster’s development.
“We usually have conversations about football, especially after games,” Junior said.
“Those conversations help me remain grounded and also work on my self-esteem.”
Alois can offer advice, but he cannot play the derby for his son.
Today, Junior has an opportunity to add something of his own to a family story already closely tied to CAPS United.
A goal against Dynamos would make his 23rd birthday memorable. A victory for Makepekepe would make it even sweeter.
The shirt is familiar, so is the surname and the rivalry.
But the future is Junior’s to write.
