Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
HWANGE coach Njabulo Dube has welcomed the prospect of facing Premier Soccer League champions Dynamos in the Munhumutapa Cup Round of 32, declaring that his ambitious side is ready for one of Zimbabwean football’s biggest fixtures.
The draw has revived memories of a rivalry that produced some of the country’s most memorable league battles when Hwange were regular top-flight campaigners. While the coalminers are now chasing a return to the Premier Soccer League, Dube believes the cup tie presents the perfect opportunity to measure themselves against the country’s best.
The game will be played in early August.
Rather than fearing the challenge, the Hwange mentor said his players should embrace the occasion.
“We are ready. Every team wants to play the big teams and for us this is a massive game,” said Dube.
“We are also chasing promotion into the Premier Soccer League so this match gives us a picture of the level we are at compared to the Premier Soccer League champions. It is a challenge we are looking forward to.”
Hwange have made no secret, their desire to return to the top flight and Dube believes testing his squad against Dynamos will provide valuable lessons as they pursue that objective.
The fixture also carries huge significance beyond the pitch, with Dube expecting the encounter to generate excitement throughout the coal-mining town.
“It is good for the Hwange community as well. These are the kind of matches supporters want to see. There is a lot of history between Hwange and Dynamos and we hope it will be another memorable occasion,” he said.
The two clubs shared many fierce contests during Hwange’s years in the Premier Soccer League, with their clashes often attracting large crowds and producing dramatic moments.
Munhumutapa Challenge Cup Round of 32 Men’s Draw update:
Aqua Stars vs Chilli FC
ZPC Kariba vs Triangle
Simba Bhora vs Manica Diamonds
TelOne vs Blanket Mine
Norton Big Boys vs Hunters FC
Chicken Inn vs Ngezi Platinum Stars
Hwange FC vs Dynamos FC
Mwos FC vs Herentals
Aqua Stars FC v Chilli FC
Hwange FC v Dynamos
Blackrock v Highlanders
Aqua Stars FC v Chilli FC
Hwange FC v Dynamos
Blackrock v Highlanders
Gwanda Pirates v Jordan
