Online Reporter
Praise Dhlakama, Zimpapers Sports Hub
AS Njube Hotspurs close in on promotion to the Zifa Southern Region League, one name has become the heartbeat of their campaign and the crowd puller at Desert Stadium in Njube, Michael “Mandoza” Kachingwe.
The 21-year-old has been the standout performer in John Mabayisa’s squad, who sat second behind Khami United in the Bulawayo Province Division Two League heading into the weekend. With 58 points from 28 matches, Hotspurs are on the verge of sealing promotion when they faced Hillside Teachers’ College at Crescent Sports Club this afternoon.
For Kachingwe, this moment feels like the reward for years of hard work.
“We’ve been working hard behind the scenes. On top of our usual schedule, we’ve been putting in extra effort. That’s why we’re getting these results. I’m happy with my performance and that of my teammates this season,” he said.
Born on 16 October 2004, Kachingwe marked his 21st birthday last month in style. He scored a hat-trick and provided an assist in a 4-0 rout of Sihlengeni, capping it off with a stunning third goal. Sprinting down the wing, he cut inside the box and, with a calmness beyond his years, toe poked the ball past goalkeeper Thabani Tshuma, sending the home crowd into wild celebration.
Versatility has been his trademark. Against Sihlengeni, he played as a winger, though coach Mabayisa often uses him as a striker or second forward. Regardless of position, Kachingwe has shone throughout the season, scoring nine goals and providing 18 assists with two games to spare.
“My target was to score 12 goals and provide as many assists because that’s my role. My favourite position is behind the strikers, but I can also play wide or upfront. I’m grateful to my coaches, who always push me to improve. I’m glad it’s all coming together this season,” said the Mabutweni based player, who admits his comfort food is rice and chicken.
His journey started at Mtshede Primary in Njube, before moving to Njube High School. He joined Chicken Inn juniors under coaches Charles Dliwayo and Nkosana Gumbo, later switching to Njube Spurs in 2019 where he lifted the Asante Sana Cup with the Under-15s.
Kachingwe’s game is marked by creativity and composure. Though lanky, he rarely loses the ball once in possession. He has an eye for goal and an instinct for the unexpected pass, traits that have drawn comparisons to Nigerian legend, Nwankwo Kanu.
At home, he supports Highlanders; in Europe, he follows Chelsea. His football heroes are former Bosso winger Mafious Chihweta and Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich, whom he admires for discipline and drive.
Njube Spurs chairman Trust Chizunza, spoke glowingly about his young star.
“What can I say? Mandoza is a sports master, that’s what we call him. He’s a very intelligent player who gives us so much going forward. I’m not surprised he’s getting recognition for it,” said Chizunza.
The youngster remains humble, aware that talent alone won’t carry him far. He urged parents to back their children’s sporting ambitions.
“As youngsters, we need the support of our parents and the community. Football teaches discipline and can change lives. So, parents should encourage us, not stop us from joining teams or attending training.
We can achieve a lot through football,” he said.
Behind this Njube Hotspurs fairytale lies a foundation of community investment driven by Marvelous Nakamba. The Luton Town midfielder’s support has built a structure that continues to nurture talent.
Last week, the club’s Under-17s were crowned Zifa Bulawayo Province champions, a testament to how far the project has come.
And right at the centre of that success story stands a young man called Michael “Mandoza” Kachingwe, proof that dreams from the dusty streets of Njube can still soar.
