Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Defence Forces marked their big day in style, sweeping aside Zambia 2-0 in a lively Defence Forces Day Trophy match at Rufaro Stadium yesterday.
Sausani Mudimba struck early before Nigel Hunga sealed the win just after halftime, ensuring the hosts’ celebration was more than ceremonial. Backed by a raucous Rufaro crowd, ZDF’s mix of Black Rhinos and Chapungu players showed sharper movement, better organisation, and a ruthless edge in front of goal.
“I’m thrilled with this win on such a special occasion,” said ZDF coach Weddington Chinyan’anya, whose familiarity with his squad proved key. “Having previously coached Chapungu, I knew exactly what I had, which made team selection seamless.”
Mudimba opened the scoring in the 11th minute, breaking clear of the Zambian defence and lifting the ball over goalkeeper Munyao Danny. The hosts could have doubled the lead when Thulani Ndimande headed over and Mudimba shot wide before the break.
Zambia’s resistance lasted only three minutes into the second half. Hunga combined neatly with Mudimba on a swift counter before rolling the ball into an empty net. He thought he had a second soon after, only for the flag to cut short his celebrations.
The visitors’ best openings fell to Chewe Brian and Kabwe Chileshe, but goalkeeper Polite Sibanda was equal to the task, producing sharp saves. A late Lubinda Mundia strike forced another stop from the ZDF captain, who was later handed the trophy by Defence and War Veterans Affairs Minister Oppah Muchinguri. Both sides also received cash prizes for taking part.
Zambian coach Dennis Banda was gracious in defeat. “The result doesn’t reflect our effort,” he said. “Considering we came together at short notice, I’m proud of how we competed. We came to celebrate with our Zimbabwean brothers on their big day.”
Zimbabwe Defence Forces Select
First XI: GK Polite Sibanda (Chapungu), RB Pelembe Maruza (Chapungu), LB Tapiwa Antonio (Rhinos), CB Philip Chamunorwa (Chapungu), CB Guidance Chirinda (Rhinos), DM Tumo Ndimandi (Chapungu), AM Willard Zakeo (Rhinos), RW Leeroy Bernard (Chapungu), LW Ignatious Mavende (Rhinos), ST Sausani Mugimba (Chapungu), ST Nigel Hunga (Rhinos)
Substitutes: GK Simon Nyama (Buffaloes), Hamond Muchingami (Chapungu), Believe Mudzangwe (Chapungu), Clive Kufandaiwuye (Rhinos), Shelton Mhaka (Rhinos), Nigel Gezani (Buffaloes), Divine Sibanda (Chapungu), Sylon Chikwerengwe (Rhinos)
