Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere [email protected]
ITS all systems go for the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup five-a-side Round of 16 stage, with the tournament set to burst into life at the FIFA Football For Hope Centre in Gwabalanda, Bulawayo, this weekend.
The knockout stage kicks off on Saturday with four matches lined up as teams battle for places in the quarter-finals.
Sunshine Stars FC will face Kilworth Academy FC at 10am, before Inkunzi Emnyama FC takes on FC Millennium at 11.30am.
TNS Rovers FC will then clash with N.E.D. B.A.N.K FC at 12.45pm, while GD5 FC and Shibobo FC bring the day’s action to a close at 2.15pm.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Five-a-Side national chairperson Philani Banda said preparations had been completed and the organisers were ready for a weekend of exciting football.
“It’s all systems go. We are ready for the Round of 16 and we are looking forward to a successful tournament. The teams have prepared well and we expect competitive and entertaining five-a-side football,” said Banda.
Vetting of players and teams will be conducted from 9.45am, followed by the national anthem before the matches get underway.
The Round of 16 continues on Sunday, with Amabhubesi FC taking on Sobukazi Sports Academy, Go-Boyz FC facing 16 Views FC, Southwonder FC meeting Mic Tech Stars and Patricon FC battling Amabhubesi Juniors U19.
Banda said the organisers were particularly keen to ensure that the knockout stage runs smoothly.
“We want everything to be done professionally, from the vetting process to the matches themselves. This is an important stage of the competition and we want the teams and supporters to enjoy the experience,” he said.
With the competition now entering the business end, the fast-paced nature of five-a-side football is expected to make for an exciting weekend at the FIFA Football Hope Centre.-@FungaiMuderere
