Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Dynamos………………………………………… (1) 4
TelOne……………………………………….….. (1) 1
ATTACKING midfielder Nathan Mutasa delivered a game-changing performance off the bench to inspire Dynamos to a convincing 4-1 victory over TelOne and book a place in the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-finals at Rufaro Stadium yesterday.
Nathan, introduced in the 64th minute, made an immediate impact by restoring Dynamos’ lead before providing the corner from which Isaac Landu headed home as the Glamour Boys pulled away from a determined TelOne side.
The defending champions, who have dominated the competition over the past three editions, stayed firmly on course to retain their title thanks to an own goal by TelOne defender Zibusiso Ruguchu, strikes from Mutasa and Landu, and a stoppage time finish by Frank Agyemang.
Panashe Mtasa scored TelOne’s lone goal in a match where the final scoreline did not fully reflect the visitors’ spirited performance.
Dynamos coach Aristica Cioaba admitted his side struggled in the opening half but was pleased with the response after the break.
“The first 45 minutes were a big surprise for me because the players did not have the confidence to play,” said Cioaba.
“We had control of the game, but we only created two or three chances, and that was not our plan.
“At halftime I told them: ‘What are you afraid of? Let’s play our philosophy and express ourselves. Even if we lose, let’s play our football.’
“The players responded very well in the second half and showed that they listened.”
Cioaba reserved special praise for Nathan, whose influential cameo underlined his growing importance to the team.
“I think Nathan was the best player on the pitch, but he still needs to improve and understand our philosophy and tactics even better,” said Cioaba.
“I have always said he is a talented player. He has quality and excellent technique. If he continues to work hard, stay disciplined and improve physically, he has a very bright future.
“Step by step, we are working with him in training. He trusts the technical team and I am confident he can become one of the best players in the country.”
The defeat marked a difficult start for newly appointed TelOne coach Joel Luphahla, who took charge after replacing Saul Chaminuka last week.
Despite the heavy loss, Luphahla drew encouragement from his side’s first-half display.
“I’m disappointed for the players because they worked hard and they are hurting after this result,” he said.
“We had a very good first half. We played with discipline and controlled the tempo of the game.
“In the second half our energy levels dropped a little. We also started trying to play the way Dynamos were playing instead of sticking to our strengths.
“When that happened, the energy demands increased and ultimately we conceded goals that, in my view, could have been avoided.”
