The 2000 Soccer Star of the Year award winner also picked Dynamos’ Tanaka Shandirwa and Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Ngezi Platinum Stars’ Takunda Benhura as the main challengers for Chirinda.

WARRIORS and Highlanders’ legend Zenzo Moyo reckons Bulawayo Chiefs marksman Obriel Chirinda will land this year’s Castle Lager Soccer Star of the Year gong after he was picked among the 11 Soccer Star of the Year finalists.

The 2000 Soccer Star of the Year award winner also picked Dynamos’ Tanaka Shandirwa and Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Ngezi Platinum Stars’ Takunda Benhura as the main challengers for Chirinda.

Sports journalists, club coaches and captains voted for the country’s best 11 players yesterday and the top three will be announced at a banquet in Harare on Friday.

Also to be revealed on Friday will be the Coach of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, Most Promising Player of the Year, and Referee of the Year.

Moyo said Chirinda deserves the top gong considering his performance at the Bulawayo side, a club with financial challenges and many a time did not train.

“For me this year it should be Obriel Chirinda of Bulawayo Chiefs. Here is a player who managed to score 12 goals playing for a club that had its troubles financially and he went on to be picked for the senior national team. He competed with clubs that have big budgets, Ngezi Platinum, FC Platinum, Highlanders and Dynamos and still managed to shine. His club was not training in some parts of the season. All things being equal, he was going to be the top goal-scorer. I also admired the ginger-haired boy from Dynamos (Shandirwa) and Benhura from the champions. These are my players for the top three,” Moyo said.

However, 2003 Soccer Star of the Year Energy Murambadoro was biased towards his department, and he tipped Ngezi Platinum Stars goalkeeper Chadya for the top award.

“I would like to say congratulations to all the players that made it onto the calendar. It is notan easy feat. The league was very competitive this year. It is all good for them, they deserved it. I will be biased towards my department. It is good to see that there are two goalkeepers in the best 11, it shows that the competition among our goalkeepers is good. It is unusual that you have two goalkeepers in the 11. For me (Nelson) Chadya is the Goalkeeper of Year and the Soccer Star of the Year. He was the driving force behind Ngezi Platinum Stars winning the league title. I would like to also congratulate one player from my club who made it, Michael Charamba. He put up a tremendous performance this year,” the Chicken Inn goalkeepers’ coach said.

Highlanders’ veteran goalkeeper Ariel Sibanda, who has 19 clean sheets also made it for the third time onto the Soccer Stars calendar.

Other players that made it to the top 11 are Highlanders defender Andrew Mbeba, DeMbare midfielder Donald Mudadi, Chicken Inn’s Charamba, Ngezi Platinum skipper QadrAmini, Herentals’ Tinotenda Benza and Manica Diamonds’ Fortune Binzi.

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Credit: Soccer24

Mbare, a bustling suburb in Zimbabwe, has become the epicenter of a soccer revolution. This vibrant community has evolved into a talent hub, producing exceptional athletes who have reshaped the nation’s football landscape. Mbare’s influence has ignited a fresh passion for the sport, redefining Zimbabwe’s relationship with soccer. This essay explores Mbare’s pivotal role in nurturing talent, fostering a football culture, and fundamentally altering the face of the sport in the nation.

Mbare’s soccer journey is a remarkable testament to resilience and raw talent within the community, with numerous young athletes achieving national and international acclaim, reshaping both local and national football. Players born in Mbare have become integral to Zimbabwe’s soccer identity. In a country where football enjoys immense popularity, many Zimbabweans have turned to football betting as a form of entertainment and engagement with the sport.

Exploring the best Zimbabwean football-related sports deals has become a common pastime, adding an extra layer of excitement to the beautiful game. We highly recommend you check out the best Zimbabwean sports deals here. This exploration seeks to understand the profound impact of Mbare’s soccer journey, not only on the broader Zimbabwean football landscape but also on the growing culture of football betting that captivates fans across the nation.

How Mbare’s Soccer Revolution Fits into the Broader History

Mbare’s soccer revolution is a contemporary chapter in this rich history. It’s a testament to the enduring passion for the sport in Zimbabwe. Over the decades, football in the country has grown from its colonial origins to becoming a source of national pride.

Mbare, with its unique blend of talent and determination, seamlessly integrates into this narrative. This community’s impact on Zimbabwean football symbolizes how the sport has transcended historical barriers and continues to evolve, making significant contributions to the nation’s sports legacy.

The Rise of Football in Mbare

Football in Zimbabwe has deep historical roots dating back to the late 19th century when British colonialism introduced the sport. Initially, it was a pastime for the British settlers, but it quickly gained popularity among the locals. The formation of the Rhodesia Football Association in 1902 marked a significant step in the sport’s formalization, which later evolved into the Zimbabwe Football Association after the country gained independence in 1980. Despite challenges such as segregation and limited resources, football in Zimbabwe thrived, becoming a vital part of the national identity.

Mbare, a bustling Zimbabwean suburb, has become a flourishing soccer hub, nurturing a deep-seated passion for the sport. Its streets reverberate with the echoes of aspiring young talents, symbolizing its rise as a football epicenter.

Overview of Mbare as a Soccer Hub

Mbare, a bustling suburb in Zimbabwe, has transformed into a vibrant soccer hub, providing fertile ground for nurturing football talent. This community’s love for the sport runs deep, with soccer pitches and makeshift fields scattered throughout the area. Mbare’s streets often echo with children kicking footballs, illustrating the grassroots passion underpinning its rise as a football epicenter.

Key Figures and Teams from the Are

Mbare has produced several key figures who have left an indelible mark on Zimbabwean football. One such figure is George Shaya, a legendary Zimbabwean footballer from this suburb. Shaya’s dribbling skills and goal-scoring prowess earned him the nickname “Mastermind,” making him an icon in Zimbabwean football history.

Mbare is also home to some of Zimbabwe’s most iconic football clubs. Highfield United and Mbare National are two teams deeply ingrained in the community’s football culture. These clubs have consistently produced talent that has dominated local competitions and made its mark on the international stage. The rise of these key figures and teams from Mbare showcases the area’s enduring impact on the football landscape in Zimbabwe.

Community Engagement

Soccer in Mbare extends beyond the field and is deeply ingrained in community life. Matches unite residents, fostering pride and camaraderie, while grassroots initiatives nurture young talent for a sustainable future.

How Soccer Has Become a Focal Point of Community Life in Mbare

Soccer has seamlessly woven itself into the social fabric of Mbare, becoming more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. The community rallies around local matches, filling improvised stadiums with passionate fans from all walks of life. Whether it’s a weekend youth game or a high-stakes showdown, soccer provides a unifying force, fostering camaraderie and shared pride among residents. It transcends age, gender, and economic divides, forging a collective identity beyond the final score.

Grassroots Initiatives and Talent Development

Mbare’s soccer revolution is fueled by grassroots initiatives that seek out and nurture young talent. Local clubs, like Highfield United and Mbare National, have structured youth programs that hone skills and provide essential life guidance. These initiatives are crucial in identifying and developing the next generation of football stars, ensuring the community’s passion for the sport remains deeply rooted and ever-growing.

Overcoming Challenges

Football in Mbare is a beacon of hope, providing a path for youth to rise above socio-economic challenges through talent, dedication, and community support.

Socio-Economic Challenges in Mbare

• Socio-economic challenges: poverty, limited access to quality education, unemployment

• Daily hardships for many residents

• Scarce opportunities in the environment

How Football Has Served as a Means of Hope and Empowerment

Despite these challenges, football has become a beacon of hope and empowerment. It offers a path for youth to escape these difficult circumstances, instilling discipline, teamwork, and determination. The success stories of local football stars who’ve risen from Mbare inspire the community, proving that even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome with talent, dedication, and support. Football serves as a vital avenue for empowerment and positive change in Mbare.

National and International Recognition

Mbare’s football success stories include George Shaya and Peter Ndlovu, whose influence extends to the national and international level, elevating Zimbabwean football.

Success Stories of Players and Teams from Mbare

Mbare boasts a rich tapestry of success stories within the world of football. Players like George Shaya and Peter Ndlovu have achieved national and international acclaim, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Both players were integral to their club teams and pivotal for the Zimbabwean national team.

Mbare’s Impact on Zimbabwean Football on a National and International Level

The community of Mbare has been a wellspring of talent that has significantly influenced Zimbabwean football. This impact isn’t confined to local leagues but extends to the international stage, with Mbare-born players playing key roles in the national team’s success. These individuals and their achievements underscore the enduring influence of Mbare on Zimbabwean football’s national and international reputation.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Mbare still faces challenges, including insufficient infrastructure and socio-economic obstacles. However, with investment, mentorship, and grassroots initiatives, it holds great promise for future growth and development in soccer.

Challenges That Mbare Still Faces in its Soccer Journey

• Insufficient infrastructure, including limited access to quality sports facilities.

• The need for increased investment in coaching and mentorship programs.

• Challenges in player development require better facilities and access to quality coaching.

• Inadequate maintenance of existing sports infrastructure.

• Limited opportunities for young talents to showcase their skills and progress in the professional football circuit.

Future Prospects for Further Growth and Development

Mbare’s soccer journey holds significant promise. Addressing infrastructure and socio-economic issues through government and community support can unlock the community’s full potential. Continued grassroots initiatives and collaborations with professional clubs can nurture talent from a young age. With strategic investment and mentorship, Mbare can produce even more football stars, elevating its status as a vital hub for the sport in Zimbabwe. The community’s passion remains a driving force, and its football future is bright with the right opportunities.

Bottom Line

Mbare’s soccer revolution has profoundly reshaped the community and Zimbabwean football. It’s a tale of triumph over adversity, where talent from humble beginnings has risen to prominence. This transformation goes beyond the pitch, transcending socio-economic challenges and instilling hope. On the broader stage, it reaffirms Zimbabwe’s position in the global football arena.

As we witness the ongoing impact of Mbare on the sport, it’s clear that this community’s unwavering passion and talent continue to write a remarkable chapter in the nation’s football history, emphasizing that from adversity, greatness can emerge.

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The 39-year-old has been at the pinnacle of the game for over a decade and has proved his class in the elite league.

FC PLATINUM defender Gift Bello has called time on his illustrious career after a massive 12 seasons in topflight football, where he played for three clubs.

The 39-year-old has been at the pinnacle of the game for over a decade and has proved his class in the elite league.

He was on parade in FC Platinum’s final match of the 2023 season against Sheasham on Saturday.

Remarkably, Bello won seven Premier Soccer League (PSL) titles in his illustrious career, three of which were with Dynamos while the other four were with FC Platinum.

Only Devon Chafa, who won four with Dynamos, one with Caps United and two with FC Platinum has achieved the same feat.

Bello joined FC Platinum in February 2014 from Dynamos and he played over 300 matches for the former PSL champions.

Apart from a record-equalling seven PSL titles, Bello also won two Chibuku Super Cup titles in 2014 and 2021.

The Harare-born defender, who also played for the now-defunct Kiglon FC, has already hinted on his next move after hanging his boots.

“It’s time move to the next level. I played my part and I believe it’s time for other to come forward and take the positions,” Bello said.

“I thank the club [FC Platinum] for the opportunity. It was worthwhile being here. We won titles and we all grew.

“So I will venture into coaching and hopefully, I will be able to remain in the FC Platinum structures.

“I’m not yet sure, but my hope is to remain at FC Platinum as I take a new route,” Bello told NewsDay Sport.

Meanwhile, Mapeza is satisfied with how his team ended the season.

FC Platinum ended the season on a high note after beating Sheasham 2-1.

They ended the season on fourth position.

“I’m happy with it. My task is to keep the team revolving. There was a lot of work because the team didn’t start off the season so well,” Mapeza said.

“We want to keep playing entertaining football. That is what we want. So now we move on and look ahead. Personally, I’m happy with the position we ended in.

“Hopefully, we will manage to keep this up since we managed to promote a number of players into the senior team.”

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