Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere
THE Nketa community is gearing up to celebrate one of its legendary sons, the late Warriors and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai “Fire” Ndoro. The inaugural Tendai Ndoro Memorial Tournament draw is set for Friday evening at Nketa Hall.
The tournament, scheduled for next Sunday and Monday, honours the football icon who tragically passed away at 40 in his Johannesburg apartment in August. Known for his scorching touch in front of goal, Ndoro was also reportedly diabetic, but his passion for the game burned bright.
“Against the background of his scintillating football career, beginning this year, the Nketa community will be running an annual tournament in his honour,” said tournament manager Ntando “Satwa” Dube.
“The main purpose is to celebrate his life and legacy, and we hope this initiative will help identify starlets for grooming by professional teams. All team representatives and organisers are expected to attend the draw. It’s a community initiative and we’re counting on everyone’s support.”
Local football legends have thrown their weight behind the tournament, including Peter “Nsukuzonke” Ndlovu, Ronald “Gidiza” Sibanda, Herbert Dick, Belithemba “Super” Ndlovu, and Zenzo Moyo.
A total of 16 teams will battle it out over two days. Participating sides include Barca 9, Nketa 9 FC, Funda Ukulinda, Eastern Strikers, Brotherhood, Eastern Bullets, Decom FC, Vula Vale Magwegwe North, Ndola FC, Mzilikazi Pirates, Nketa Stars, Nketa 6 FC, Sekusile, Emganwini Legends, Celtics FC, and Barca 9.
The first-day elimination matches will be held across four venues — Nketa Hall, Nketa 6, Nketa 9, and Emganwini grounds — with winners advancing to semi-finals and finals at Nketa Hall.
Ndoro was an inspirational figure both nationally and internationally. He scored five goals in 14 appearances for Zimbabwe between 2013 and 2017. At club level, he lit up Orlando Pirates, netting 25 goals in 48 league matches between 2015 and 2017, quickly becoming a fan favourite.
With this memorial tournament, Fire’s legacy will continue to inspire young players in Nketa and beyond.
