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Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
VHUSA Ngwenya stepped onto the pitch like a boy, but by the final whistle, he had the markings of a man.
Thrust into Dynamos’ starting line-up for the first time this season, the young midfielder played with a poise beyond his years, helping DeMbare grind out a crucial 1-0 victory over defending champions Simba Bhora on Sunday.
It was a baptism of fire for the 19-year-old, facing off against seasoned campaigners, including former Dynamos stalwarts Junior Makunike, Emmanuel Ziocha, Donald Mudadi, and Trevor Mavunga. But Ngwenya held his own, showing glimpses of a future star in the making.
“I’m happy with my performance, especially since it was my first game this season,” said Ngwenya.
“The coaches kept telling me to be patient that my time would come. They advised me to keep things simple, and even if I made mistakes, to keep going.”
Having been part of the Dynamos junior ranks since the age of 12, Ngwenya has grown under the watchful eyes of senior teammates such as Shadreck Nyahwa and Emmanuel Jalai, who have guided him on and off the pitch.
“They have a lot of experience, and we learn a lot from them,” he said.
“As youngsters, we take their advice seriously because they’ve been through it all before.”
Sunday’s performance was not just about earning a spot in the team but making a statement. Last season, Ngwenya was deployed as an inverted right-back, covering for Jalai. But against Simba Bhora, he returned to his natural midfield role and flourished.
“I’m comfortable playing anywhere the coach needs me, but it feels good to be back where I belong,” he said.
With momentum swinging Dynamos’ way, Ngwenya is hungry for more. “We want to keep pushing every week and build on this energy,” he declared.
His first start of the season may not be his last. If Sunday was anything to go by, Dynamos may have just unearthed their next big gem.
Online Reporter