Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi, Zimpapers Sports Hub
GENESIS Mangombe rose to national prominence two years ago when he guided Dynamos to their first major trophy in a decade, lifting the Chibuku Super Cup. It was a breakthrough moment for the then little-known coach, who had previously managed Black Mambas and Yadah.
That victory not only ended Dynamos’ long silverware drought but also secured them a rare return to continental football — despite internal turmoil both on and off the pitch. The achievement strengthened Mangombe’s coaching credentials and opened new doors, earning him a role at rising outfit Scottland, followed by a brief stint in Tanzania’s top flight.
Now back in Zimbabwe, the 46-year-old finds himself once again in the Chibuku spotlight—this time with a different team. Mangombe is now head coach at Triangle, where he has helped stabilise a side that had been rapidly sliding towards relegation.
Triangle begin their Chibuku Super Cup campaign tomorrow in the preliminary round, a position determined by their low league standing at the time of the draw. The tournament’s format sees the bottom four teams face off first, with the two winners progressing to the first round alongside the top 14 clubs.
Defending champions Dynamos, currently struggling for form, face Yadah today at Ngoni Stadium. Triangle take on league newcomers Kwekwe United tomorrow at Mandava.
Mangombe’s side enters the competition with quiet momentum. After a poor start under former coach Luke Masomere, the Sugar Sugar Boys are now unbeaten in their last 11 league matches. That run, which dates back to May 25, includes eight draws and just three wins.
Still, they have every reason to be optimistic. On paper, Triangle have the easier fixture. Kwekwe United, in their debut top-flight season, have managed just one win from 24 games. They have lost 17 matches and are battling financial difficulties and low morale.
While Triangle held Yadah to a 1–1 draw in their last outing, Kwekwe United were outclassed 3–1 by Herentals on Sunday. Earlier this season, Triangle comfortably beat Kwekwe 3–0 in the league.
That result gives Mangombe’s men a psychological edge, though cup football is notoriously unpredictable.
This year’s Chibuku Super Cup offers more than just silverware. For clubs fighting relegation, it presents a chance to restore belief. For coaches like Mangombe, it is a platform to rebuild reputations — or, in his case, to enhance one already on the rise.
Chibuku
Super
Cup
Fixtures:
Today: Yadah v Dynamos (Ngoni)
Tomorrow: Triangle v Kwekwe United (Mandava)
