Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
FORMER ZIFA Unity Cup-winning defender Charles “Chola” Maguraushe believes the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup is shaping up for a fascinating finish and put his money on either of CAPS United or Scottland claiming the cash-rich tourney.
The former national Under-23 defender was impressed by the two sides who advanced from the Round of 32 last weekend.
CAPS United announced their intentions in emphatic fashion, demolishing Scottland Academy 6-0 in a one-sided encounter at Baobab.
Takesure Chiragwi’s men were ruthless in front of goal, producing the kind of commanding performance that immediately put them among the leading contenders for the knockout competition.
CAPS United have over the last few years been battling to reclaim their lost fame of “Cup Kings’’.
Scottland, on their part, prevailed 3-0 over FC Oden to also showcase their strength.
The Premiership champions have enjoyed a strong campaign in the league and with their depth and attacking options, are expected to be difficult opponents as the tournament progresses.
For Maguraushe, those performances were enough to convince him that the two Harare sides have what it takes to go fight for the title.
“From what I saw over the weekend I think I will put my money on either Scottland or CAPS United. I have the firepower to go all the way,” said Maguraushe.
Maguraushe is no stranger a competition of the magnitude of the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup.
He was part of the Masvingo United side that won the ZIFA Unity Cup in 2002, which then as now was the country’s flagship knockout tournament.
In a memorable final, Yuna Yuna beat Railstars 4-3 on penalties at Mucheke, with Maguraushe converting the decisive spot-kick to secure the trophy.
More than two decades later, he can still appreciate the unique opportunities that the competition provides.
According to Maguraushe, the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup is not merely about determining a champion.
It is also an important platform for players from the lower divisions to announce themselves on a bigger stage.
The tournament brings clubs from different levels of the domestic football pyramid together, creating opportunities for less-heralded players to test themselves against established opponents.
“It’s a tournament that gives opportunities to players from the lower leagues,” said Maguraushe.
“It markets players.”
The former Sporting Lions player knows this from experience.
He recalls how the 2002 edition helped bring several previously unknown players into the spotlight.
“I remember back in 2002 when we won the Cup there were some unheralded players like Alois Ngwerume of Highdon Raylton who earned lucrative moves after the tournament.”
While the biggest clubs naturally attract more attention, the competition has traditionally provided a stage where smaller teams and individual players can create their own headlines.
And this year’s tournament has already lived up to that reputation.
The early exit of two traditional giants, Dynamos and Highlanders, may have altered the complexion of the competition but did not diminish interest in the tourney.
Dynamos were eliminated by Hwange at the Colliery on Saturday, while Boss also crashed out at the same venue 24 hours later, long to Blak Rock.
With two other giants falling by the wayside, CAPS United and Scottland now stand out as two of the strongest remaining contenders.
“It would have been more exciting if Dynamos and Highlanders had progressed but nonetheless it still remains an intriguing tourney.
“We expect more surprises to come in this tournament.”
That element of unpredictability could ultimately be what makes the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup particularly compelling.
The shock exits of Dynamos and Highlanders have already demonstrated that possibility. Scottland’s status as Premiership kings, makes them one of the teams everyone else will want to beat.
