CLASH OF ZIM BOYS

Bruce Chikuni

THE South African Nedbank Cup last 16 draw has presented the Zimbabwean duo of Terence Dzvukamanja and Tatenda Tavengwa with a chance to rub shoulders on a bigger stage.

Dzvukamanja’s Orlando Pirates are set to host Venda Academy, which Tavengwa plays for, in the knockout competition.

Venda FC are in the Patrice Mostepe Foundation Championship, and are among five clubs from the lower tier league, which progressed to the last 16 of the tournament.

The date for this fixture will be announced in due course.

Dzvukamanja appears to be back in favour following an underwhelming start to the season.

A section of the club’s fans called for his head during the offseason, but coach, Jose Riveiro, backed him.

He has since forced his way back into the starting XI in the Buccaneers’ last outings.

Tavengwa is also in fine form and has been a regular in a side, which has changed coaches three times since his arrival last year.

Venda FC are three places above the basement club with 18 points from 17 matches.

However, the former CAPS United anchorman insisted that they are pushing to finish in a respectful position.

“We have experienced mixed fortunes, but we are not despairing yet,” said Tavengwa.

“There’s still a chance for us to finish in a better position and everyone is putting in 100 percent effort to achieve that.

“We have just been unfortunate in some games, but I’m confident that at the end of the season, we will be in a different position.”

Should he get the chance to play against Pirates, it will probably be his biggest fixture since arriving at the club.

He also revealed that it was his wish to play against Dzvukamanja.

“At the moment we are not thinking much about that game, but we are all aware of the task at hand.

“Pirates are a big club and they can cause harm on any day.

“We will cross the bridge when we get there, and if I’m selected to play, I will be happy because it’s a big game,” he said.

Venda FC visit FC Baroka in a league match on Saturday.