Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
WARRIORS captain Marvelous Nakamba has thrown his weight behind rising star Mongameli Tshuma, revealing a personal mentorship between the two players who share roots in the coal-mining town of Hwange.
The veteran midfielder’s backing came after a dominant 3-0 victory over Botswana, where Tshuma scored on his debut, a moment Nakamba described as proof of a special talent.
“That boy is special,” said Nakamba.
“Mongameli has something you cannot teach. He has the vision, the close control, and most importantly, the mentality. He is not afraid to ask questions, to learn.”
Nakamba, who has played in the English Premier League for Aston Villa and Luton Town, said he has taken the youngster under his wing, offering guidance beyond the pitch.
“I told him he has the talent. Now he must be disciplined,” Nakamba said.
“I have backed him fully. He will succeed with the Warriors, mark my words. If he continues this trajectory, working hard every single day, listening, and staying humble, he will play at a very high level.”
The connection between the two traces back to Hwange, the northwestern Zimbabwean town that has produced a string of football talents over the years.
Nakamba’s rural home is in Hwange and Chipangano is the club his father Anthony played for.
Tshuma joined Highlanders this season coming from Hwange where he scored eight goals.
Nakamba’s endorsement of Tshuma came amid a broader display of leadership that extended off the field.
The Warriors captain revealed that he and fellow defender Teenage Hadebe quietly covered accommodation costs for several travelling fans who made the journey from Zimbabwe and faced the prospect of sleeping rough after the match.
However, Teenage Hadebe won’t take further part in the Four nations tournament after he was punished for indiscipline in camp.
“We heard about the situation from a team official,” Nakamba said speaking on helping the fans.
“Teenage and I spoke, and we agreed immediately. These fans spend their last dollar on transport, on flags, on their voices for us. The least we can do is give them a safe place to sleep. They are the reason we fight.”
On the pitch, Nakamba delivered a masterclass in midfield, breaking up attacks and orchestrating play as Zimbabwe cruised to a statement win under coach Mario Marinica.
“We came here with a mission, and it was non-negotiable to win against Botswana,” Nakamba said.
The victory sets up a final encounter against Zambia today, with Nakamba vowing an all-out attack.
“The win is good for the confidence,” he said. “But seeing our fans safe, and seeing boys like Mongameli hungry, is the real victory. With a game to play against Zambia in the final, we are going all guns out in search of a victory.”
