Langton Nyakwenda Zimpapers Sports Hub
SCOTTLAND goalkeeper Nelson Chadya will be hoping to extend his impressive clean-sheet record when the Zimbabwean champions host Angolan giants Petro Atletico de Luanda in a TotalEnergies Caf
Champions League second preliminary round first leg tie at the National Sports on Sunday.
Chadya is yet to concede in this season’s Caf Champions League after keeping two clean sheets in 180 minutes against Eswatini champions Nsingizini Hotspurs, whom Scottland beat 1-0 in Harare before drawing 0-0 in Mbabane.
The former Ngezi Platinum Stars goalkeeper has also registered 21 clean sheets in the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, breaking a special record in the process, and underlining his growing importance to Mabviravira.
Before last weekend’s shock 0-1 league defeat at ZPC Kariba, the 29-year-old Chadya had gone for five games without conceding.
Chadya has risen to become one of the most trusted goalkeepers in the country and is one of the players being touted for the 2026 Soccer Star of the Year award.
Despite last weekend’s defeat at Nyamhunga, Chadya insists Scottland are ready to bounce back against Petro Atletico.
“Yes, the loss in Kariba affected us, but we have been preparing well for our next game.
“We have worked on our mistakes and we will be solid on Sunday,” he told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
Scottland surrendered their position at the top of the PSL following the defeat in Kariba, with Kwekwe-based Hardrock moving two points clear with four rounds remaining.
However, Chadya believes the continental assignment provides an opportunity to restore confidence.
“This is a different competition altogether, so we have to get into that game against Petro Atletico with our confidence levels high,” he said.
Scottland will be seeking a first-leg advantage before travelling to Luanda for the return leg at Estadio 11 de Novembro on October 23.
Petro Atletico advanced after eliminating Mozambique champions UD Songo, winning 1-0 away before drawing 2-2 at home.
“Anything is possible in football.
“We just have to keep believing in ourselves and to the fans I want to say come in your numbers and support us,” added Chadya.
