Wenslus Murape
Monalisa John
SIMBA Bhora forward, Tymon Machope is on a mission to make his mark on the football scene, both at club and national levels.
Fresh from an impressive performance for the Warriors Select against the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Select at Rufaro on Tuesday, Machope has set his sights on reaching at least 17 league goals for Simba Bhora this season.
With 11 games left to play, he is officially just one goal shy of double figures, and he’s determined to win the Castle Lager Premiership marathon.
Machope’s focus on club duties is well-timed, as Simba Bhora prepare to host Herentals at Wadzanai this Saturday in the Chibuku Super Cup.
he team has an impressive record at this venue, remaining unbeaten all season.
Machope will be looking to capitalize on this momentum to lead his team to victory.
But Machope’s goals go beyond just club success.
He’s also eager to impress the national selectors, with the Warriors’ 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on the horizon.
His recent performance has given him a boost of confidence, and he’s hoping to carry this form into the national team setup.
He scored the solitary goal when Warriors Select floored ZDF side in a challenge match.
Machope’s journey to the top has been inspired by his predecessor, Tinashe Balakasi, who won the club’s Golden Boot for three consecutive seasons before moving to Orapa United in Botswana.
Balakasi’s legacy looms large, and Machope is determined to follow in his footsteps.
Machope will also face tough competition from the team’s captain Walter Musona who has racked up eight goals.
It’s proving to be an interesting race which appears too close to call.
As Machope takes to the pitch on Saturday, he’ll be aware of the challenge ahead.
Herentals will be no pushover, and Simba Bhora will need to be at their best to secure a win in a low-key derby.
But with his sights set on both personal and team glory, Machope is ready to put on a show.
“I’m not just thinking about personal goals, though I want to help Simba Bhora succeed.
“We’ve got a great team dynamic going on right now. Everyone is working together towards a common goal. We know Herentals will be tough opponents, but we’re ready for the challenge.”
“Balakasi set the bar high, and I want to reach it,” said Machope.
He added:
“I’m excited to see what the rest of the season holds.
“I’m ready to give it my all and make a difference for Simba Bhora.”
Chibuku Super Cup First Round
Saturday: FC Platinum v TelOne (Mandava), Chicken Inn v Yadah (Luveve), Bikita Minerals v CAPS United (Sakubva), Simba Bhora v Herentals (Wadzanai)
Sunday: Highlanders v Greenfuel (Barbourfields), Manica Diamonds v Chegutu Pirates (Sakubva)
Postponed: Dynamos v ZPC Kariba, Ngezi Platinum v Bulawayo Chiefs
Online Reporter