US$200 football match sponsorship, what a mockery?

Sports Reporter

THE ZIFA Eastern Region Division One made a mockery of domestic football when US$200 was put at stake for the Independence Day challenge match pitting Buffaloes and Mutare City Rovers.

The game was the main event of the 43rd Independence Day Manicaland provincial celebrations that were held at Sakubva Stadium.  

While it was enough just to play for fun on the day, recognising the significance of the commemorations, an unnamed well-wisher came in with a “package” to spice up the duel that was played before a packed Showgrounds Sports Arena.

The low key Mutare derby featuring the army side and the prisons wardens could not produce a winner after an hour of riveting action as the match ended 0-0.

That Mutare City Rovers missed a first half penalty underlined the impotence and bluntness of both teams in front of goal.

In the end, the two teams shared equally the US$200 that was put on stake by a well-wisher. The “package” however has been roundly criticised by multitudes of football-loving people on various social media platforms.

The ZIFA Northern Region also hosted an Independence match between Harare City and Herentals Under-20 at the Glamis Arena where trophies and medals were presented to the winners, in a much dignified manner. Harare City won the tie after a penalty shootout.

In Bulawayo, Arenel Movers played Indlovu Iyanyathela and won the provincial Independence Cup tie 3-1 at White City Stadium.