Petros Kausiyo Deputy Sports Editor
AFTER keeping their unbeaten AFCON qualifying run intact, the Warriors have revealed they are enjoying the love they have been receiving from the Zimbabwean football family. The Warriors battled to a 1-1 draw against Congo in Brazzaville in a Group G qualifier, with Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Khama Billiat finding the target for Zimbabwe after 22 minutes before the hosts drew level in the 50th minute via forward Thievy Bifouma, who plays for MKE Ankaragücü in Turkey.

There is a general acknowledgment within the Warriors camp that the battle in Brazzaville is one they could have easily won with better precision and sufficient conviction as they had the Congolese on the ropes for much of the encounter.

But, as they returned home yesterday, the Warriors indicated they have been basking in the support they have been getting from their fans.

Wales-based defender Alec Mudimu paid tribute to the Zimbabwean fans and said the Warriors had been buoyed by the support they have received.

Mudimu, who plays for CEFN Druids in the Welsh Premier League was playing his first Nations Cup assignment for Zimbabwe, having featured for the Warriors in a Four-nation tournament in Zambia and the COSAFA Cup in Polokwane, South Africa.

“A little disappointing, really, it feels like a loss because it’s a game which we should have won, in all honesty, but then again that’s football for you,’’ said Mudimu.

“I feel we lacked a good start in the second half, but I want to thank all the supporters for fighting with us. It’s not easy to travel away, but knowing we have the love and attention back home in Zimbabwe helps so much.

“So thank you everyone. There’s always room for improvement in football, no matter who you are, no-one is perfect, but I believe it wasn’t really about me and how I played or about anyone else in the side, but it was about how we played as a team and to be away from home and get a draw in a game which we could have won, and come out with at least a point, is a step in the right direction I think.’’

Captain Knowledge Musona, who provided the assist for Billiat’s goal, had also taken to Twitter to thank the fans for the affection they are showing the Warriors.

After experiencing the conditions in Brazzaville, which he felt had not been much different from what he felt in Zambia, Mudimu, just his like his teammates, will now return to club duties in their different leagues, but they will be keeping another eye on the Warriors’ next assignment.

Sunday Chidzambwa’s men will be back on the road next month when they visit their biggest group rivals DRC in the first of back-to-back explosive encounters at Stade des Martys in Kinshasa on October 10.

Team manager Wellington Mpandare said he was confident Chidzambwa’s selection will be further boosted by the expected return of such players like Marvellous Nakamba, Costa Nhamoinesu, Ovidy Karuru and Nyasha Mushekwi, who were all missing because of varying injuries.

“I have been in touch with Ovidy and he has two weeks to go before he is back. Nakamba was in Spain over the weekend for further treatment and he is now ready to resume playing.

“I also had a chat with Costa on Friday and he should be resuming full training in a week, but I understand he is recovering very well,’’ Mpandare said.

The Warriors team manager said he was optimistic of a better situation ahead of camp for the DRC game.

Injuries ravaged preparations for the Warriors’ trip to Brazzaville, with even star midfielder Billiat, who was battling a hamstring strain, being a doubt until the eve of the team’s departure.

The Warriors will also be happy to go back to their clubs knowing they have retained top spot in Group G after their nearest rivals DRC also only managed a 1-1 draw on their trip to Liberia in Monrovia.

The post WARRIORS FEEL THE LOVE appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

WARRIORS star Khama Billiat says the team has no fears about facing the fancied Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the Group G qualifier next month, insisting he is relishing the prospect of meeting the group favourites.

BY HENRY MHARA

Zimbabwe currently lead the group with four points after easing past Liberia 3-0 at home last year in the opening Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier before picking a precious point away in Congo Brazzaville on Sunday.

However, the Sunday Chidzambga-coached side, who arrived back home yesterday from Brazzaville, face the biggest test of their campaign when they clash with second-placed DRC in back-to-back matches early next month.

The Warriors travel to Kinshasa on October 10, before hosting DRC in Harare three days later, in two matches that could well make or destroy Zimbabwe’s hopes of making a quick return to Africa’s premier football tournament.

Speaking to the media after touching down at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport yesterday afternoon, Billiat, who scored the Warriors’ solitary goal on Sunday, said he is aware of the threat posed by DRC whose stars are scattered across Europe, and playing in some of the world’s top clubs.

“The team that need it the most on the day will get the result. If we are going to need it more than them, in spite of their players and whoever plays for them, we still stand a better chance of winning the matches. We just need to be mentally and physically strong. We have to make sure that we come here for one purpose, which is to help each other and make sure that we qualify again,” Billiat said.

“We know how big it is to qualify for Afcon. The feeling never leaves you. We still have it, and it feels like it happened yesterday.”

DRC — who boast of such stars as Cedric Bakambu, one of the top goal scorers in the Chinese Super League, former Chelsea midfielder Gael Kakuta now with La Liga side Rayo Vallecano and FC Porto striker Chancel Mbemba — are second in Group G after their 3-1 win over Congo last year, which they followed up with a shock 1-1 draw away to Liberia at the weekend.

Some of their regulars include Everton’s Yannick Bolasie, Junior Kabananga of Astana and Stoke City forward Benik Afobe.

Surprisingly, all the above mentioned stars did not make the squad that travelled to Liberia, but there is little doubt that they would be called in for the Warriors match.

“It will be tough, we will need everyone to be focussed, and put all for the country. We are looking forward to it.
We will make sure that we are in the right shape for the upcoming match,” Billiat reckons.

The Kaizer Chiefs striker said the team is disappointed to get a point in a match that they should have won, had they converted the chances that they created.

“Its not a result that we wanted, but its something that we can take. We are happy because we played better and created chances, which we can rectify in the future. We are happy with the performance of the team, we moving in the right direction. We have to soldier on, and make sure we collect as many points as we can in the next matches.”

Billiat passed a late fitness test to feature in the match and he revealed yesterday that he was only 80% fit when he played at the weekend.

Zimbabwe missed some good chances to wrap up the match, especially in the first half which the visitors totally controlled. The second half belonged to the home side. Billiat also spoke about the super team goal he scored, which many has described as work of art.

Picking the ball in his half, Billiat exchanged a pass with Kuda Mahachi before he fed striker Evans Rusike, who returned the ball to the former to pick out Warriors skipper Knowledge Musona on the wide.

Musona, realising that he was at an acute angle, squared the ball to Billiat who was just arriving in the box to easily tap it home.

“I’m surrounded by good players who are always in the right positions, and they give me options. Musona gave it (ball) back, European style [giggles] and it was so easy for me. Everyone was on the move, fast, as the coach would have wanted it. Football is always easy when you pass and move, and that is what happened. I’m happy for everyone.”

Congo Brazzaville and Liberia have a point each. Two teams from the group qualify for the Afcon finals to be hosted by Cameroon in January next year.

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Local teenage football star and the winner of the Shield-Chelsea next champion competition, Joseph Mandevani left the country yesterday for London, England where he would get a once in a life opportunity to train at English Premier League side Chelsea’s training ground Cobham.

BY GARISH PHIRI

The 19-year-old is part of the Africa XI team that would play an exhibition match against the club’s legends, rubbing shoulders with the likes of John Terry, Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba.

“The feeling you can’t explain it, it’s more than just being happy. I am grateful to go to London today (yesterday).
I am expecting a lot going to London, going to one of the best teams in the world. Meeting great coaches and players like Drogba (Didier) and Lampard (Frank) and training, am expecting to learn a lot from them,” Mandevani said.

He is the winner of the talent search competition by Unilever through their leading brand Shield which saw Chelsea development coaches arriving in Zimbabwe to identify a player that would link up with other stars picked from across the continent to make the Africa select team.

“I think it’s going to improve my knowledge as a person, my understanding as a footballer. The teachers from here and Chelsea are different so am going to learn a lot. I am going to get a lot experience out of it,” he added.

Local coaches that helped in the selection included former Warriors mentor Kalisto Pasuwa, Alois Bunjira, Naison Muchekela and Cosmas Zulu

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Former Zimbabwe captain Moses Chunga believes the appointment of Kirsty Coventry as Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation is the best thing ever to happen to the sector. The legendary Olympian took her oath of office in Harare yesterday.

Chunga hailed President Mnangagwa as a hands-on statesman for his decision to place a sports personality in the position.

He said Government has taken some positive steps to correct the past wrongs in a nation that has for a long time disregarded its sports legends.

The former DeMbare star said Coventry’s rich sporting background and her track record in leadership, with international sports organisations, made her as the best person for the job.

“It’s something that was long overdue. Personally, I wasn’t surprised because she has been in the trenches and has seen it all.

“It shows our President is someone not divorced from the realities on the ground. He is a practical man who should be hailed for taking sport seriously.

“I am sure the coming in of Kirsty will bring a massive change to the face of sport in Zimbabwe. She is someone who understands the joy of winning and the agony of missing out on the podium, as opposed to most of her predecessors.

“That alone is priceless, you can only give what you have.

“It takes a practical person, who is wise, to lead the way in building and developing success. Sport is definitely poised for greater things,” said Chunga.

Coventry takes over from Kazembe Kazembe, who has been reassigned to the Ministry of Information Communication Technology and Cyber Security.

Her appointment has been greeted with excitement within the sports fraternity and the nation at large.

“This is a refreshing diversion from the layman leadership. Sport does not need unrealistic theorists who are only good at producing theories of what could be done without really committing themselves to executing things.

“They don’t understand what it means or what it takes to prepare for a competition.

“This is an excellent move by the President. I am sure this has also broken down the barriers with the constituency because it was not easy getting the best ideas for development to the previous political chiefs who always created around them that aura of fear.

“Their offices were not approachable.

“But the President has shown he is keen to see change, that’s why he is saying I am your servant. We are hoping the youths and sports-people will no longer feel intimidated to get their issues heard,” said Chunga.

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By Tadious Manyepo

Zimbabwe’s Premiership clubs have hailed Farai Jere as their substantive leader, with many pinning their hopes on the Harare businessman to drive a revolution that will turn around the top-flight league.

Jere beat Triangle United’s Lovemore Matikinyidze to become the PSL’s substantive boss.

The PSL had been without a substantive leader since Peter Dube’s departure nearly two years ago.

Jere went straight into business yesterday by having a meeting with his deputy, Lifa Ncube, whom he described as an outstanding and visionary individual who can help him transform the league.

He then went on to meet the PSL secretariat, led by chief executive Kenny Ndebele, where he assured the league’s workers that their jobs were safe contrary to speculation that they will be fired should he take over.

Jere has also invited ZIFA president Philip Chiyangwa to make his first visit to the PSL offices this morning as he preaches the gospel to end the boardroom battles which has plagued the two organisations in the past.

And the PSL clubs believe they have the right man for the job.

Harare City chairman Alois Masepe said they had trust in Jere.

“Harare City Football Club would like to congratulate the newly-elected Premier Soccer League chairman whom we believe will steer the ship and help transform local football to a better level.

“It is our fervent hope that he will work hard to professionalise the league. He is a man who is capable of doing wonders for the league. We should be somewhere in terms of running the league.

“Jere is a man of dignity and has always shown the zeal to administer football given the way he has managed to professionalise CAPS United.

“We will support him unconditionally in this journey. He needs support from stakeholders and I am quite convinced he will be able to deliver. We wish him the best in this journey in his four-year term at the helm of PSL,” Masepe said.

Ngezi Platinum Stars chairman, Jeremiah Gasitene, said Jere was capable of turning around the fortunes of PSL and deserves all the clubs’ support.

“We would like to congratulate him (Jere) for his election to the PSL’s chairmanship position.

“It’s a sign that the league stakeholders trust his leadership qualities. We all hope to work with him. What we do not doubt is his ability to deliver. We hope he will implement his vision well.

“We will all be looking up to him for guidance. It’s always good to have someone of repute at the helm of the PSL and we hope he will do well,” Gasitene said.

Giants Dynamos were also happy with Jere’s election with president Solomon Sanyamandwe wishing him well.

“Dynamos Football Club is fully behind the new PSL chairperson whom we are very confident will take us to the Promised Land.

“There is no doubt about his capabilities. His management skills are there for all to see. Look at how he has managed CAPS United.

“He is an accomplished administrator who deserves the post and we will support him as much as possible because we know he will take our football far.”

Premiership newboys Herentals might have missed on the chance to vote after their representative arrived at the election venue late, but they also saluted Jere.

“The experience we have had in our stay in the top-flight tells us that we needed someone of Farai Jere’s calibre at the helm of the PSL.

“We would like to congratulate him on his ascendency,” read a statement from Herentals.

The Premiership will play their first games under the Jere era when the league, which had taken a break due to international fixtures, resumes with eight matches lined up for tomorrow and one on Thursday.

Castle Lager Premiership Fixtures

Tomorrow: Ngezi Platinum v ZPC Kariba (Baobab); Chicken Inn v CAPS United (Luveve); Nichrut v Bulawayo City (Ascot); Black Rhinos v FC Platinum (NSS); Shabanie v Yadah (Maglas); Herentals v Bulawayo Chiefs (Rufaro); Mutare City v Highlanders (Vengere); Triangle v Harare City (Gibbo)

Thursday: Dynamos v Chapungu (Rufaro)

The post Clubs Salute Jere appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

By Eddie Chikamhi

All-rounder Sikandar Raza met Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani on Sunday as part of efforts for the two parties to find common ground.

Raza was left out of the group of players who were given central contracts by ZC after he went to play in Canada without the blessings of the game’s leadership.

The issue has sparked an outcry among some fans who want to see the cricketer, who was the star of the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier, back in the team.

On Sunday, Raza announced he had met Mukuhlani. “Travelling back to Harare, I met with the chairman of ZC to discuss the best way forward,” he tweeted.

“I can happily say a lot of good things came out of the meeting and I am confident that this matter will be resolved sooner rather than later.

“Thank you all for prayers & support.”

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe Select coach Shepherd Makunura says the Africa Cup T20 tournament which takes place in South Africa this week is a platform for fringe players to fight for their places in the national team ahead of two important tours this year.

The Select side, which has a host of national team hopefuls like Cephas Zhuwao, Ryan Murray, Richard Ngarava, Brian Chari, Richmond Mutumbami and skipper Tarisai Musakanda, is expected to leave for South Africa tomorrow morning for the tournament.

The event will run for 10 days starting this Friday.

The Zimbabwe Select has been placed in Pool B and will face Western Districts, Free State, Gauteng and Northerns.

The tournament will warm the stage for the Chevrons’ upcoming tour of South Africa where they are scheduled to engage the Proteas in three One Day Internationals and three T20I later this month before proceeding to Bangladesh next month.

Makunura yesterday said, apart from the development initiative, the Africa Cup T20 has opened the doors for outstanding performers in his Select squad to be considered for senior national team duties.

“Actually, this is a very good tournament. The South Africa provincial sides are quite strong so we expect some good competition.

“It means a lot in terms of our development and also for the players themselves. Some of them have been pushing for places in the national team and this is a grand opportunity to prove themselves especially with some important tours coming up this year,” said Makunura.

Top order batsman Musakanda, who gave a decent show on his debut last year, has been named captain of the Select side ahead of some experienced players like Timycen Maruma, who is angling for a return to international cricket.

Maruma, Neville Madziva, Tinotenda Mutombodzi, Chari and Rugare Magarira took part in the 2017 competition and they will seek to make their experience count in this year’s edition.

The competition has been expanded to 20 teams and will take place in the four coastal venues of Oudtshoorn, East London, Pietermaritzburg and Paarl.

Nigeria and Uganda will make their debut appearance in the competition, joining Zimbabwe Select, Namibia, Kenya and 15 CSA affiliate sides.

“I am sure we have prepared very well for this tournament.

“Most of the guys were in the national team that took part in the recent home series, so we just took it up from there.

“I think the boys are looking sharp and in terms of fitness they are in great shape,” said Majunura.

Zimbabwe Select:

Tarisai Musakanda (captain), Ryan Murray (vice-captain), Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Timycen Maruma, Cephas Zhuwao, Tinotenda Mutombodzi, Neville Madziva, Mohammad Faraz Akram, Rugare Magarira, Richmond Mutumbami (wicketkeeper), Brandon Mavuta, Richard Ngarava, Brian Chari.

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LONDON. — James Anderson was hailed as “England’s greatest cricketer” by the retiring Alastair Cook on Tuesday shortly after he became the most prolific fast bowler in Test history.

Anderson overtook Australia great Glenn McGrath’s tally of 563 wickets when he knocked out Mohammed Shami’s middle stump as England bowled out India for 345 to seal a 4-1 series victory at the Oval.

“It’s been a privilege to play with, I think, England’s greatest cricketer,” said man-of-the-match Cook.

“No disrespect to any other guys but his skill to do it time in, time out. You almost take it for granted that he is going to hit a length from ball one to over 90. It shouldn’t be like that. It’s fitting he knocked out middle stump.”

Anderson, who now has 564 scalps, said he was happy his friend was on the field to witness his record.

The Lancashire swing bowler now just trails the spin trio of Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan (800 wickets), Australia’s Shane Warne (708) and India’s Anil Kumble (619) in the all-time list.

“When (Rishabh Pant) and (KL) Rahul put on that partnership it looked like they may get close so my job was to hold an end up,” said Anderson, at 36 three years older than Cook.

“I didn’t think I’d bowl 14 overs from that end. Thankfully Joe let me take the new ball eventually which gave me a chance to get that wicket.

“He (Cook) is my best mate and he’s been brilliant — there for me all the time.”

England’s ecstatic captain Joe Root labelled Anderson’s achievements “astounding” and said he hoped he had plenty more Tests ahead of him. “For him to have taken as many wickets as he has, to even be in the same league as the likes of McGrath, now chasing the big two spinners, is a phenomenal effort and I think the most exciting thing is he’s bowling in my opinion probably at his best.

“Throughout this summer he’s been outstanding and I can see that carrying forward hopefully for a long time still.”

Root described the feats of Cook, who made 147 in the second innings of a 118-run win, and Anderson, as “fairytale stuff”.

“For Alastair to go out like that and for Jimmy to finish the game off in real style, that was really fitting for those two guys who are really close mates.”

Root added it was important for England to have won 4-1 after coming into the Oval Test with the series already in the bag, ahead of a three-match contest in Sri Lanka in November.

The post Anderson hailed by Cook appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
HAVING burst on the big stahe as an unknown entity in 2013, national bodybuilding champion, Ndumiso Dlodlo, will return home to defend his title at the Sharon Hall in Milton Park in the capital.

Mr and Ms Zimbabwe is the premier bodybuilding contest in the countr.

This year’s event will be held on September 30.

South Africa-based Dlodlo is set to be the star attraction.

He has gone shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of Champion Chienderamwano, Isaac “Sugar” Chimuchenga and Mat Humphreys.

Chienderamwano has since called it a day.

Two years ago, The Dog, as Dlodlo is affectionately known, took part in the ZITF Open and dominated the event.

He also competed at the nationals and came second behind Nigel “Spartan” Maphosa.

He defended his ZITF title last year after narrowly defeating Blessing “The Shadow” Nyapimbi to claim gold.

Dlodlo didn’t appear to have done his preparations well when he finished third in the Ironman 2017 event behind Blessing ”Hunky B” Saunyama and Lovemore “DeMbare” Munyamana.

The post Dlodlo to defend title appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

CAPE TOWN. — The Springboks are in Wellington this week preparing to become the first South African side since 2009 to win a Test match in New Zealand.

No Bok coach since Peter de Villiers has won in New Zealand and, remarkably, he did it twice in as many years having won there in Dunedin in 2008 and then in Hamilton a year later.

Both of those results were famous Springbok performances, with Ricky Januarie’s breakaway try in 2008 one of the great South African rugby moments.

It is a record that De Villiers is obviously proud of, but one that he desperately wants to see broken.

“If you look at what we achieved between 2008 and 2011, and at those kinds of records that are still standing, then it makes me bitter to think that we haven’t progressed,” the now-61-year-old told Sport24 from Harare.

“I can’t rejoice in something like that, because this is my country and if you want to see your country go forward then records are there to be broken.”

Love him or hate him, you can’t argue with De Villiers’ stats against the world champions.

No Springbok coach, since the dawn of professionalism, has beaten the All Blacks more times than De Villiers. He has 5 wins from his 11 Tests against New Zealand, leaving him with a win percentage of 45.4%.

Only Nick Mallett has a better win record against the ‘old foe’ with 4 from 7 (57.1%).

The rest of that list reads like this: Allister Coetzee 0 from 4, Heyneke Meyer 1 from 8, Jake White 3 from 9, Rudolf Straeuli 0 from 5, Harry Viljoen 0 from 2, Carel du Plessis 0 from 2 and Andre Markgraaff 1 from 4.

Yet, despite his success against a side that the Springboks are now nowhere close to, De Villiers has been left out in the cold by SA Rugby following the end of the 2011 World Cup when he lost his job.

Ever since then, the only work he has been given in South African rugby was as head coach of the University of the Western Cape in 2012.

Given that De Villiers also guided the Boks to a famous 2-1 series win over the British and Irish Lions in 2009, that is nothing short of staggering.

“They didn’t want me close to the game,” De Villiers recalls of the SA Rugby leadership at the time.

“I went to speak to Jurie (Roux, CEO) about a role where I could bring coaches up to the level where they could understand the game.

“I’m not saying that I was the only one who could do it, but I think a lot of young coaches don’t understand the mental skills in the game. There are a lot of skills that you need to have in a coach so that you can look for them in the players.

“The response was that he could not give me an answer and that it would take six months to speak to the board before he could get back to me.”

Despite his fall out with SA Rugby, De Villiers has now moved on and is currently the head coach of the Zimbabwe national team that recently failed to qualify for the 2019 World Cup.

It is a job that has given him immense satisfaction, and he speaks with fondness about the improvement he has seen in his players over the last year.

“The sport here is not professional and these guys have never been exposed to high-performance coaching, but we are getting there, and I think it is happening quicker than we expected,” De Villiers says.

“I thought that leaving the World Cup in 2011 so suddenly … I never put a lid on my coaching career, so I thought I would come do it now.”

While he has been based in Harare, De Villiers still considers Paarl his home and he watches the developments of the national side closely.

The post Forgotten man of SA rugby appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

MELBOURNE.— An Australian newspaper defiantly republished a controversial cartoon of tennis star Serena Williams on its front-page yesterday, slapping aside “politically correct” accusations that the drawing was racist and sexist. Melbourne’s Herald Sun cartoonist Mark Knight’s caricature of Williams throwing a tantrum at the US Open, was originally printed on Monday, attracting widespread condemnation from across the world.

Under the front-page headline “WELCOME TO PC WORLD”, the newspaper wrote yesterday that”if the self-appointed censors of Mark Knight get their way on his Serena Williams cartoon, our new politically correct life will be very dull indeed”.

The cover included caricatures of other Australian and foreign political leaders drawn by Knight. The veteran cartoonist added on Wednesday he had suspended his Twitter account to protect his family and friends.

Prior to disabling his account, his tweet of the cartoon had attracted more than 22 000 comments, most of them critical.

Knight labelled the outcry against his cartoon as a sign that the “world has just gone crazy”.

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WASHINGTON. — Richarlison capped his first full start for Brazil by scoring twice as the South American soccer giants thrashed El Salvador 5-0 at the FedEx Field on Tuesday.

The 21-year-old , who was signed by English Premier League side Everton from Watford earlier this year for $52 million, produced two excellent strikes on 16 and 50 minutes to reward the faith shown in him by manager Tite.

El Salvador barely mustered a chance as Brazil, led by Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar who played the entire 90 minutes, put on an excellent performance in front of their adoring American based fans in the US capital. Tite and his coaching staff are ready to move on from their disappointing showing at the World Cup this summer where they lost to Belgium in the last eight and are now focused on the 2019 Copa America in Brazil.

This was a display which would have encouraged them immensely.

The Brazil coach named a strong side for the second match of their mini two-match tour – the USA were defeated 2-0 on Friday in New Jersey – with the likes of Neymar, Douglas Costa, Philippe Coutinho all starting.

The post Brazil hammer El Salvador appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

LONDON. — Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has been fined £50 000 and banned from driving for 20 months after pleading guilty to one count of drink-driving at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

Lloris (31) admitted being more than twice the drink-drive limit when he was stopped in the early hours on August 24.

Lloris, who captained France to World Cup glory in the summer, was driving his 2018-plate Porsche Panamera along Gloucester Place, Marylebone, when he was pulled over during a routine stop by police.

The court heard Lloris provided a sample containing 80 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath – the legal limit in England and Wales is 35 microgrammes.

Prosecutor Henry Fitch said police in an unmarked car spotted Lloris’ vehicle driving at 15mph in a 30mph zone.

He also veered his car “towards parked vehicles”, before correcting himself.

When police stopped the vehicle, they discovered vomit and said Lloris had to be helped from the car.

Lloris signed for Spurs from Lyon in 2012, and has made 209 appearances in the Premier League, keeping 75 clean sheets.

The post Spurs keeper Lloris banned from driving appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

Ray Bande in RUSAPE

Mutare City . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 1

Highlanders . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0

HIGHLANDERS coach Madinda Ndlovu was livid with the way this match was handled and slammed the match officials after his team slumped to a shock defeat at the hands of their relegation-threatened opponents.

Mutare City’s ageless forward Evans Chikwaikwai scored the only goal of the match at Vengere yesterday after he was introduced as a substitute in the second half.

“I have nothing to say to you. You can get a better comment from the referees,” said Madinda.

“The referees will have a comprehensive comment for you. This was pathetic match officiating.”

Bosso, who thrashed Dynamos 3-0 in their last match at Barbourfields and had only one day to prepare for yesterday’s encounter, were their own worst enemies as they had chances to win this match.

They became the latest giants to fall at the hands of the Mutare side who have beaten Ngezi Platinum and CAPS United.

Coach Ndega Matsika said his team deserved their victory.

“I think we played well and deserved to win this game.

“We actually missed a lot of chances and our opponents also fluffed a number of good opportunities.

“However, I am happy that at the end of it all, it was my team that got the important goal.

“We are now looking forward to the match against Black Rhinos and hope to collect more points as we fight relegation.

“We still have a chance to survive and that is what we are targeting,” said Matsika.

The post Bosso bite the dust appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

Ngqwele Dube in BULAWAYO

Chicken Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 1

CAPS United . . . . . . . . . . . (2) 2

CHICKEN INN’S remote hopes of winning the Castle Lager Premiership title were dealt a severe blow at Luveve yesterday after they crashed at the hands of CAPS United.

The two teams are led by the league’s top bosses, Farai Jere, who is the PSL chairman and Lifa Ncube, who is the Gamecocks leader.

CAPS United were awarded a penalty five minutes into the game by referee Nkosana Nduna after defender Last Sithole and forward Wisdom Mutasa clashed.

Veteran Joel Ngodzo stepped up to convert the spot kick.

The early goal disoriented the home side and CAPS United piled the pressure and were rewarded in the 43rd minute when Passmore Bernard failed to clear the ball and was dispossessed inside his box.

Although goalkeeper Pride Zendera blocked the first attempt, he could do nothing to stop Mutasa from slotting in the rebound.

It was his second goal in as many matches.

The hosts came back a rejuvenated side, in the second half, but only had one goal to show for it in the 55th minute when Obriel Chirinda laid a pass to the advancing Innocent Mucheneka who beat goalkeeper Prosper Chigumba.

Chicken Inn gaffer Joey Antipas was irked by the decision by the referee to give the Green Machine a penalty.

“It was a game of two halves, with CAPS playing better than us in the first half while we came back stronger in the second half,” said Antipas.

“We had the chance to get a draw or even win the match, but if you waste chances then you don’t win games.

“I think the second goal was a blunder from our defender as he failed to clear the ball and I think the first shouldn’t have been a penalty, as it was a 50 /50 situation.

“I am not taking anything away from CAPS as they played well and were tactically superior in the first half.”

CAPS coach Lloyd Chitembwe said his men stuck to their game plan although they could have done better in the second half.

“It’s good that we are going back home with the three points. The boys played well in the first half and managed to apply the technical and tactical aspects of our game plan,” he said.

“(They) showed great composure with good ball possession.”

Teams

Chicken Inn: P Zendera, P Bernard, B Nyahunzwi, G Majika (J Nyabinde 58th min), M Jackson, S Munawa, O Chirinda, I Mucheneka, D Nyandoro (N Mutatiwa 69th min), C Matawu (O Tarumbwa 79th min), L Sithole

CAPS United: P Chigumba, M Ncube, C Munzabwa, S Makatuka, M Mwanjali, C Kamhapa, V Musarurwa, J Ngodzo, T Chiunye (B Muzondiwa 60th min), D Mukandi, W Mutasa (A Chidiebere 90th min)

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Eddie Chikamhi Senior Sports Reporter

Black Rhinos . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) 1

FC Platinum . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 1

FC Platinum forward Rodwell Chinyengetere took his place at the top of the Golden Boot race when he grabbed a late equaliser in a tough Castle Lager Premiership match against wasteful Black Rhinos at the National Sports Stadium yesterday.

Chinyengetere headed home his 11th goal of the season to sit level with ZPC Kariba’s David Temwanjira and Lameck Nhamo of Triangle.

The 30-year-old, who was earlier in the day named best player for August by football journalists, has been doing well of late.

His coach Norman Mapeza was also unveiled as the Coach of the Month.

Chinyengetere yesterday made sure his side avoided defeat away from home as nearest rivals Ngezi Platinum slashed the gap at the top to two points.

The 30-year-old forward continued from where he left off in their last game when he grabbed a hat-trick in a 6-0 drubbing of struggling Mutare City.

The defending champions were facing defeat yesterday after Allen Gahadzikwa thrust the army side into a 38th minute lead with a fine header from a cross by Tafadzwa Jaravani.

Rhinos could, at least, have doubled their lead going into the breather, but Farai Banda missed point blank after Masimba Mambare had sent him clear through the middle.

FC Platinum returned from the break with more urgency and they forced Rhinos to sit back and defend their lead.

After a sustained blitz, Mapeza’s men were rewarded in the 78th minute when Chinyengetere headed in a corner kick by Never Tigere.

But, with nearest rivals Ngezi winning at home to ZPC Kariba, Mapeza yesterday described the draw against Rhinos as a “massive away point” for his team.

The former Zimbabwe international felt his side lacked creativity in midfield and was forced to throw into the fray Tigere and recent signing Devon Chafa.

“I think it was a good game of football. We came here looking for maximum points, but it didn’t happen.

“But I am happy with the point, especially coming back from a 1-0 down in the first half.

“I think we really pushed, but it wasn’t easy for us. At the end of the day I can’t complain of the point because it’s a point gained for us.

“It’s a game of football. We have to take today’s result and keep focusing, keep working hard and see how the season progresses,” said Mapeza.

FC Platinum are now on 59 points, two better than Ngezi Platinum Stars, with eight games remaining in the season.

Rhinos have been going through a bad patch of late and have only one win in their last seven outings.

Chipembere coach Herbert Maruwa was satisfied with the point despite his side dropping out of the top eight on the standings.

“It was a good show from the boys. Unfortunately, we failed to defend in the second half, but I am quite satisfied with the result, especially with the chances that we created.

“We could have killed the game in the first half.

“We got, maybe, two clear chances, but it’s part and parcel of the game. We need to focus on our next assignment,” said Maruwa.

Teams

Black Rhinos: A. Reyners, T. Jaravani, S. Jimu, M. Mekiwa, B. Homora, D. Mudadi, W. Kapinda, F. Banda, M. Mambare, A. Gahadzikwa (M. Makuwe, 72nd min), W. Taderera.

FC Platinum: W. Magalane, R. Muduviwa, E. Moyo, W. Stima, G. Bello, W. Mhango, F. Madhananga (N. Tigere, 67th min) , R. Kutsanzira, A. Sadiki (M. Dube, 79th min) , R. Chinyengetere, A. Eonde (D. Chafa, 46th minute).

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Grace Chingoma Senior Sports Reporter

Ngezi Platinum Stars . . (1)1

ZPC Kariba . . . . . . . . . . . . .0

NGEZI Platinum coach Tonderai Ndiraya said there is no bad win after his troops scrapped to a narrow, but crucial victory over ZPC Kariba at home to reduce the gap between them and log leaders FC Platinum to just two points.

With FC Platinum dropping points in Harare against Black Rhinos, the result at the end of the day proved to be a significant one for Ngezi even though they will be the first to admit they didn’t shift into second gear.

They had a number of good chances, especially in the first half, but they could not convert them.

Midfielder Keith Murera’s goal, just before the half-hour mark, off a cross from Michael Charamba, made all the difference.

Charamba’s assist made up for the way he missed a number of decent chances for his team in this pressure game.

The platinum miners have now taken their tally to 57 points from 26 games.

Champions FC Platinum lead the race with a two-point cushion over the chasing pack, with Ngezi in second place.

“Three points, I am happy. I think that’s what is important,’’ said Ndiraya. “Of course, we were not really ourselves today, we didn’t play really well.

“But l am happy by the way we fought, the determination and the commitment put in by the boys for us to get three points.

“I guess that’s what is important at this time of the season, collecting maximum points and moving on.

“I have said that at this time of the season it’s not about how you play but just getting the points that you want.

“Of course, we want to play well to entertain fans, but I guess this time of the season is just about concentrating on getting maximum points and we have done that today.’’

While welcoming the draw between rivals FC Platinum and Black Rhinos, Ndiraya warned there will be more twists and turns in the remaining eight matches.

“We still have so many matches to go, 24 points to play for, and that’s still a long way to go,’’ the coach said.

“I have said it before that there are going to be twists and turns.

“FC Platinum dropped points away, we are also going away in our next match. We just have to make sure we go there and fight for points.

“It is not going to be easy for us.’’

The visitors, with a bit of luck, could have forced a draw, particularly in the last minutes of the match when they forced a number of corner kicks.

Ngezi goalkeeper, Donovan Bernard, was forced to make a fine save off Moses Demera’s lob.

That was as close as it gets.

ZPC Kariba coach Godfrey Tamirepi felt his charges could have got a point.

“A very frustrating defeat. We gave them a lot of respect in the first half,’’ he said. “They were playing long balls and nothing else.

“In the second half l think we were the better side.

“We came back strongly but showed signs of desperation. We had a chance of equalising but unfortunately we couldn’t.

“I was happy with the way Simba Gorogodyo came in the second half to control the game and also taking them on.

“We are playing Highlanders over the weekend, we need to regroup and make it a point to get a good result,” said Tamirepi.

Teams

Ngezi Platinum: B. Donovan, N. Ketala, P. Moyo, K. Bulaji, T. Chipunza (L Chakoroma, 84th min), F. Makarati, M. Charamba (D. Teguru, 74th min), M. Mushonga, G. Murwira, C. Augusto (S Owusu 71minute), K. Murera

ZPC Kariba: T. Mawaya. P. Ghani (M Demera 40th minute). M. Kunyarimwe. I. Nekati. S. Appiah. C. Muleya. T. Chamboko. T. Ranthokoane. T. Munyanduri. T. Nyamandwe (B Nyamuzihwa, 78 minute). D. Temwanjira (S. Gorogodyo, 59th minute)

The post TWISTS AND TURNS…NGEZI PLATINUM STARS MOVE WITHIN STRIKING DISTANCE OF THE CHAMPS appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

ALL-ROUNDER Sikandar Raza was the most notable omission yesterday when Zimbabwe announced their squads for the upcoming back-to-back away tours to South Africa and Bangladesh.

Zimbabwe are scheduled to leave for South Africa later this month where they will clash with the Proteas in three One Day Internationals and three Twenty20 International games.

The team then proceed to Bangladesh for three ODIs and two Tests running in November.

But, with most of the senior players who missed the recent home assignments against Australia and Pakistan back in the fold, Raza doesn’t feature in any of the four squads.

The all-rounder is currently involved in talks with the Zimbabwe Cricket leadership in a bid to convince them to renew his contract.

The 30-year-old remains one of Zimbabwe’s best players in all forms of the game. Raza is accused of flouting regulations by going to play cricket in foreign lands without first obtaining a no-objection certificate, as is the standard practice in the professional game, worldwide.

The cricketer opened negotiations with the leadership last week hoping for a quick resolution to the challenges.

ZC convenor Walter Chawaguta was not available for comment yesterday.

But the good news to coach Lalchand Rajput is the return of the likes of Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams and Craig Ervine who missed the recent tour by Australia and Pakistan because of a payment dispute.

The trio will, alongside captain Hamilton Masakadza, Chris Mpofu and Solomon Mire, provide Zimbabwe with the experience they need against one of the best cricket sides in the world.

Mire and pace bowler Kyle Jarvis have recovered fully from their injuries. There is no place, however, for former captain Graeme Cremer who recently underwent a knee surgery and is recovering under the watch of the medical team. Elton Chigumbura looked like he was nearing the twilight of his career but the selectors have given him another lease of life after he was named in the T20I and ODI squads for both tours.

SOUTH AFRICA TOUR

Zimbabwe ODI Squad: Hamilton Masakadza (captain), Solomon Mire, Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Peter Moor, Elton Chigumbura, Donald Tiripano, Kyle Jarvis, Brandon Mavuta, Richard Ngarava, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Wellington Masakadza, Ryan Murray, Tendai Chatara

Zimbabwe T20I Squad: Hamilton Masakadza (captain), Solomon Mire, Neville Madziva, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Peter Moor, Elton Chigumbura, Tendai Chisoro, Kyle Jarvis, Brandon Mavuta, Christopher Mpofu, Chamu Chibhabha, Wellington Masakadza, Tarisai Musakanda, Tendai Chatara

BANGLADESH TOUR

Zimbabwe ODI Squad: Hamilton Masakadza (captain), Solomon Mire, Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Peter Moor, Elton Chigumbura, Donald Tiripano, Kyle Jarvis, Brandon Mavuta, Richard Ngarava, John Nyumbu, Wellington Masakadza, Tarisai Musakanda, Tendai Chatara, Cephas Zhuwao

Zimbabwe Test Squad: Hamilton Masakadza (captain), Brian Chari, Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Peter Moor, Regis Chakabva, Donald Tiripano, Kyle Jarvis, Brandon Mavuta, Richard Ngarava, John Nyumbu, Wellington Masakadza, Ryan Burl, Tendai Chatara

The post Raza to miss SA, Bangladesh tours appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

Japan’s Naomi Osaka has refused to criticise Serena Williams after her historic US Open tennis victory was overshadowed by the American’s furious row with the chair umpire.

The 20-year-old melted hearts when she broke down sobbing after thrashing her idol 6-2, 6-4 to become Japan’s first Grand Slam singles champion in New York last weekend.

Japanese tennis legend Kimiko Date said it made her “heart ache” to see Osaka reduced to tears and unable to savour her moment of glory.

But after returning to Japan yesterday, Osaka insisted there were no hard feelings towards Williams, who branded umpire Carlos Ramos a “thief” in an astonishing tantrum triggered by a code violation for coaching that culminated in a docked game.

“For me I don’t feel sad because I wouldn’t even know what I’m expected to feel,” said Osaka, who has climbed from 19th to seventh in the new world rankings.

“I don’t think I even thought about feeling sad because there’s no experience for me to draw on in any other Grand Slam final,” she added.

“I just thought I shouldn’t have any regrets. Overall I felt really happy and know I accomplished a lot.”

Osaka, who competes at next week’s Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo, also revealed her plans to break into the top five this year – and win a shiny gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“I think for this year my immediate goal would be to get to Singapore,” said Osaka after putting herself firmly in contention to reach the season-ending WTA Finals.

“I want to do well at the Pan Pacific Open and maybe year-end top five – but I’m not putting pressure on myself. For now I’m just sort of riding the wave.”

“Of course I’m very excited the Olympics are going to be held in Tokyo,” added Osaka, who is of Haitian-Japanese descent and was raised in the United States.

“It’s every athlete’s dream to play in the Olympics, so of course it would be my goal to win gold.”

Date, a former world number four, has tipped Osaka to become Japan’s first tennis number one.

But for now Osaka is itching to do normal stuff – like catch up with big sister Mari, who is also a professional tennis player, go shopping and eat her favourite match ice cream.

“I guess I’d like to hang out with my sister – I haven’t seen her since Wimbledon,” said Osaka, who has become an unlikely hero in a country still reeling after a summer of deadly typhoons and earthquakes.

“The Pan Pacific is so close and I have to be on a diet for my matches, so maybe afterwards for the ice cream.”

Asked how she felt about being a role model for young children, Osaka gave mixed signals.

“I’ve always thought Kei (Nishikori) was a super good role model and hopefully I can be that too,” she said. “But don’t look up to me, because I don’t want that responsibility!”

The post Osaka has no US Open regrets appeared first on Zimbabwe Today.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said he would like to end his coaching career where it began, with Barcelona’s reserves.

Guardiola (47), in his third season at City, took over Barca’s B team in 2007 before being promoted to the senior side a year later.

“I will finish where I started; my final steps will be with youth teams. Hopefully, it will be Barca’s,” he told the Universo Valdano show, which will air in Spain on Thursday night.

This summer, former Barcelona midfielder Guardiola ruled out a return to coach the Barca first team. He won three La Liga titles, two Champions Leagues and two Club World Cups during four seasons in charge. Guardiola signed a two-year contract extension with City in May, keeping him at the club until June 2021, and guided them to last season’s Premier League title with a record-breaking 100-point tally. “My teams will try to play how I want them to play,” he said. “That’s why I’m a coach and I deserve to be happy.”

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