Meet Highlanders’ new goal scoring sensation

WITH youthful striker Nigel Banda hitting goals for fun at their junior squad, Highlanders FC may be set up front for the next decade.

Banda (16), plays for the under-17 side and has recently been rewarded for banging in goals by Division One team Bosso90 coach, Melusi “Mabaleka” Sibanda.

He has played in seven games this season at the junior level and has scored an astounding 18 goals. He is his team’s star as they currently sit atop the under-17 Southern League Junior League, with Biya and Friends Academy chasing them.

He is yet to play for Bosso90 this season, but has been on the bench for a couple of matches.

The Mpopoma High form four student from the Mpopoma suburb explained to the SaturdayChronicle how he balances playing at the junior level, Division One level, and his schoolwork, admitting that there are times when he has had to make sacrifices.

“At times I miss school in order to attend training sessions especially for the Division One team. I am lucky that I have coaches who understand my situation, but at the same time, I also try to make sure that I always catch up with my school work.”

The courageous young striker will hope to carry on his excellent form when Highlanders Juniors play Talen Vision on Wednesday. He was left out of the squad that played Adachi FC at White City Stadium today, so he will also hope to play a few minutes for Bosso90. Without a doubt, if he maintains his strong play, he may find himself in the first team, which has a history of elevating young players from the junior divisions, including Prince Ndlovu, who was elevated to the first squad at the age of 16 last year.

Banda also spoke of how serious he takes his studies and his dream to one day play in Europe.

“My hope is that I do well in my O-Level exams and proceed to A-Level. I know it is not easy but I hope to find myself playing European football one day,” said Banda. With Zimbabwean football back in the international scene, the teenager will hope to make it to the upcoming tournaments for the national Under-20 side.