Online Reporter
Media Mpofu,Zimpapers Sports Hub
MPOPOMA High School turned Gifford High into a theatre of dreams this week, delivering a masterclass in youth football to lift the Under-17 NASH title in emphatic fashion.The two day provincial tournament, hosted at
Gifford High School, featured 12 schools, including football powerhouses like Milton, Sobukazi, Lobhengula, and Gifford, competing for top honours. The action kicked off on Friday, with the semi-finals played on
Wednesday.Sobukazi, Lobhengula, Khami, and Mpopoma High booked their places in the last four. In a tense semi final clash, Mpopoma edged Khami 7–6 in a penalty shootout after a deadlock. Lobhengula saw off Sobukazi with a narrow 1–0 win, setting up a high stakes final.But in the championship match, Mpopoma left no room for doubt, dismantling Lobhengula 5–0 in a dominant display of pace, precision, and power.The win secures
Mpopoma’s spot at the national finals, set for 18–21 June at Chinhoyi High School.James Rugwevera, the school’s technical director, praised the team’s grit and growth throughout the tournament.“The boys played very well, especially in the final. Winning 5–0 in a final match is no easy task. We are very happy for them,” Rugwevera said.He added that preparations for the nationals are already underway.“We thought we were out after that penalty shootout, but the boys pushed through. Now we’re aiming to win in Chinhoyi.”Provincial Head in Charge of football, Cain Ncube, applauded the spirit of the competition.“What an incredible day. All went well. Each match was a testament to the hard work and preparation that went into this tournament,” Ncube said.
