Albert Andiseni-Mashingaidze
TelOne edged past Caps United with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a second-half goal from their star striker, Washington Navaya.
The match was a showcase of determination and resilience, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance and frustration.
The game kicked off with Caps United looking to assert their dominance early on. Just 16 minutes into the match, TelOne’s Gerald Bero found himself in a promising position inside the penalty box, only to be brought down in what appeared to be a clear foul.
However, the referee waved away the appeals, much to the dismay of the TelOne players and their supporters. The decision seemed to galvanize the away side, who began to enjoy a better share of possession in the following minutes.
As the first half progressed, Caps United pushed forward, but TelOne’s defense held firm. In the 43rd minute, a crucial moment arrived when Caps United’s Kundai Benyu unleashed a low shot aimed at the bottom corner.
However, TelOne’s goalkeeper, Tapiwa Chilenga, was equal to the task, making a spectacular block to keep the score level at halftime.
The second half saw a shift in momentum as TelOne came out with renewed vigor. Just six minutes after the restart, Washington Navaya found himself in the right place at the right time, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Caps United.
With a deft touch, he slotted the ball past the goalkeeper, sending the TelOne fans into a frenzy.
The goal came as a relief for TelOne, who had been searching for a breakthrough.
Despite the setback, Harare giants refused to back down.
They pressed forward in search of an equalizer, and in a heart-stopping moment, Junior Bunjira found himself with a golden opportunity inside the 18-yard box.
His powerful shot, however, struck the crossbar, leaving the Caps United players and fans in disbelief as the ball moved away from danger.
TelOne had a chance to double their lead shortly after, with Chimedza finding space in the box.
In a moment of misfortune, his shot went wide of an empty net, leaving the TelOne bench in disbelief.
The tension in the stadium was tangible as the clock ticked down, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal.
As the final whistle blew, TelOne celebrated their hard-fought victory, while Caps United were left to ponder missed opportunities.
In the post-match interviews, Caps United Assistant Head Farai Tawachera coach expressed his pride in his team’s performance.
“We had quite a couple of opportunities we didn’t capitalize and We could have defended better because it was a one-on-one duel where the striker got the better of our central defender but that’s the nature of the game, you make mistakes against good opponents you get punished”
Telone coach Herbert Maruwa was understandably happy after beating Harare Giant.
“We came back from the break that’s where we managed to control the game and managed to get a goal which gave us three points, first half the boys were seated at the back on halftime I told them Let go forward and get a goal”
Leeroy Murape the match-winner, reflected on his performance in the second half.
“The coach just told us players let’s maintain what we were training the whole week and it showed in the second half as we created chances in the second half and we are happy we got the three points from home.”
As the players left the pitch, the atmosphere at Ascot Stadium was a mix of jubilation and disappointment, a testament to the fierce rivalry and competitive spirit that defines Zimbabwean football.
With this victory, TelOne has set the stage for an exciting season ahead, while Caps United will be eager to bounce back in their next fixture.
Meanwhile, Tawanda Macheke recently opened up about his new journey with TelOne FC, reflecting on his roots in Shurugwi and his education at MSU.
He shared insights from his experiences playing in South Africa and expressed heartfelt gratitude to his fans, emphasizing the importance of their support as he strives for success in his career.
Tawanda Macheke has embarked on an exciting new chapter with TelOne FC, a move that he describes as both thrilling and challenging.
He acknowledges the significance of this opportunity in shaping his professional career.
Hailing from Shurugwi, Tawanda emphasizes the influence of his upbringing on his football journey.
His time at Midlands State University (MSU) played a crucial role in honing his skills and preparing him for the competitive world of football.
Reflecting on his time playing in South Africa, Tawanda shares valuable lessons learned from competing at a higher level.
He highlights the differences in training, competition, and the overall football culture, which have enriched his understanding of the game.
Tawanda expresses deep appreciation for his loyal supporters, acknowledging their unwavering encouragement.
He reassures them of his commitment to giving his best on the field and aims to make them proud as he represents TelOne FC.
