Chronicle Editor
Zimpapers Sports Hub
MARSHALL Munetsi made history on Saturday evening by becoming the Premier League’s first Zimbabwean goalscorer since 2011 as Wolverhampton Wanderers drew 1-1 with Everton.
The last Zimbabwean player to get a goal in the English Premier League was Benjani Mwaruwari.
Munetsi’s goal not only secured a crucial point for Wolves but also placed him in an exclusive group of Zimbabwean footballers to have scored in the English top-flight.
The match began slowly for Wolves, who struggled to find their rhythm. Everton took advantage, breaking the deadlock in the 33rd minute through Jack Harrison. The goal, which had been coming for Harrison after a long drought since February 2024, was aided by a slight deflection off Matt Doherty’s legs, helping the ball into the net.
However, Wolves responded just seven minutes later, with Munetsi scoring his first-ever Premier League goal.
The assist came from Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, who made a brilliant run, evading two defenders before sliding a pass to Munetsi. The Zimbabwean midfielder finished confidently, levelling the score. It was a well-executed goal that showcased his composure under pressure.
After half-time, Wolves made a change, with Munetsi substituted for Pablo Sarabia. Despite this, it was Everton who looked more dangerous in the second half, creating several chances. Beto tested Wolves goalkeeper José Sá, and Charly Alcaraz had a go after a mazy run, but neither could find the breakthrough. Wolves, though, held firm defensively and kept Everton at bay.
The draw was a crucial one for Wolves as they continue their battle for Premier League survival. The result left them six points clear off the relegation zone, sitting in 16th place with 23 points. Their focus remains staying in the top-flight league, and while this wasn’t a victory, the point felt like a step in the right direction.
Munetsi’s goal was a significant milestone for Zimbabwean football. He joined the ranks of Peter Ndlovu and Benjani Mwaruwari as the only Zimbabweans to have scored in the Premier League, with 14 years passing since Benjani last found the net for Blackburn Rovers.
While Everton will be disappointed not to have secured all three points, the draw leaves both sides looking toward mid-table finishes as the season progresses.
In the English Championship, Cardiff City midfielder Andy Rinomhota and Luton Town man Marvelous Nakamba missed action due to injuries.
The pair joins Plymouth Argyle defender Brendan Galloway on the injury list.
Tawanda Chirewa started in Huddersfield XI and played for 57 minutes as they lost 1-0 to Bristol City. Reading’s Tivonge Rushesha came on as late substitute in their 1-1 draw against Crawley Town.
Lincoln City defender Tendayi Darikwa featured in the match against Birmingham but his side lost 1-0.
In the Belgian Pro League, Bill Antonio was an unused substitute in KV Mechelen’s 1-0 win over Charleroi while Munashe Garan’anga also sat out in Copenhagen FC’s 1-1 draw against Sønderjyske.
Jordan Zemura was set to be in action last night as Udinese took on Lazio in the Serie A.
Online Reporter