Football gospel according to Mathew and Mark

Langton Nyakwenda

Zimpapers Sports Hub

IN the Bible, Matthew and Mark are renowned for documenting the life and teachings of Jesus Christ; they were messengers of a powerful gospel.

In Mabvuku, another set of Matthew and Mark is also preaching, only this time their gospel is football.

The Murambiwa twins, 22-year-old Mathew and Mark, are the latest pair of footballing siblings to emerge from the gritty high-density suburb of Mabvuku, which once produced the legendary Mugeyi twins, Wilfred and William.

Mathew is a defensive midfielder starring for Castle Lager Premier Soccer League debutants MWOS; while Mark, nicknamed “Makelele” for his no-nonsense style, anchors the midfield at Northern Region Division One side Ali Sundowns.

“We have read about the exploits of Wilfred and William, but we never saw them play,” said Mark. “However, the fact that they hailed from Mabvuku and prospered through football inspires us.”

Wilfred was crowned Soccer Star of the Year in 1992, almost 11 years before the Murambiwa twins were born, while William was a mainstay for the Warriors during the 1990s and early 2000s.

The Mugeyis are not the only twins who inspired them.

“We also draw inspiration from the Moyo twins, Kelvin and Elvis. They played together at Bulawayo Chiefs, FC Platinum and Dynamos. I am convinced one day we will play in the same team,” added Mark.

Mathew has been a vital cog for Lloyd Mutasa’s unbeaten MWOS, who have gone nine matches without defeat in their maiden PSL campaign.

He was named man of the match in their 1-0 win over Herentals at Wadzanayi Stadium in Shamva on Matchday Six, and followed it up with a rock solid display as MWOS edged Dynamos 1-0 at Ngoni Stadium in Norton.

Last Thursday, Mathew was again immense as MWOS came from behind to draw 1-1 with Manica Diamonds at Ngoni.

The twins last played together in 2020 at Friendly Academy, which scouted them at the age of nine from Ali Sundowns.

“Friendly Academy took us places,” said Mathew. “In 2013, we went to Poland for the VW Cup. The following year, we travelled to the United States. We also went to England and South Africa.”

After 2020, their paths briefly diverged.

Mathew tried his luck at several clubs, including in South Africa, before eventually landing at MWOS from Harare City at the end of last year.

“I played for Messina United for two years, then joined Venda Football Club,” revealed Mathew. “When I returned to Zimbabwe, I had a trial at Yadah Stars, but it didn’t work out.

“Luckily for me, coach Herbert Maruwa gave me an opportunity when he was at Harare City in 2024. It turned out to be an incredible season as I had standout performances. That’s how MWOS got wind of my name.”

Meanwhile, Mark continues his steady rise at Ali Sundowns.

“So far so good at Ali Sundowns. I am doing my best,” he said. “I am also grateful that my twin brother is doing well at MWOS. I keep encouraging him because whenever he does well, he is also representing me.”

MWOS face Chicken Inn at Luveve Stadium this afternoon, seeking to stretch their unbeaten run to 10 matches.

“We’ve had a great start, but it’s still early days. We need to keep up the momentum,” said Mathew, who plays alongside Tinotenda “Dhiziri” Mutyambizi at the heart of MWOS’ midfield.

The PSL newcomers have already accumulated 19 points.

While some pundits are already tipping MWOS for a top-four finish, coach Mutasa remains grounded.

He continues to push his players and insists the club’s primary goal is to avoid relegation.

“We are fine with what we have achieved so far, but we expect a tough encounter against Chicken Inn,” he said.

“Remember, if you are doing well, everyone you meet will want to break your run. But we’ve had a great start. We hope and pray that we continue in this direction.”

Chicken Inn, once feared, have struggled this season, managing just one win in nine games.

Catch the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League action live on our sister TV channel, ZTN Prime, DStv Channel 294.

This afternoon, don’t miss the blockbuster clash between Dynamos and Scottland. Then wrap up your football weekend on Monday with Herentals vs Triangle United, also live on ZTN Prime.

Match build-up begins at 2.30pm.

Don’t just read about it, watch the action unfold, live!