Dynamos 2 – 0 FC Platinum
FC Platinum went into the game under pressure to close the gap, with rivals Simba Bhora having built a nine-point lead just the day before. However, Dynamos capitalized on the urgency and caught the platinum miners off guard with a strategic counter-attack that saw Emmanuel Ziocha and star player Valentine Kadonzvo score two quick goals in the first half.

Dynamos coach Lloyd Chigowe praised his team’s disciplined approach and highlighted how they took advantage of FC Platinum’s desire to score early. “We knew FC Platinum would come in guns blazing,” Chigowe said. “We let them go forward and then counterattacked them. Tactically we played good football, handled the pressure and kept the distance.”

Led by coach Norman Mapeza, FC Platinum dominated possession from the start and created early chances. Midfielder Hagiazo Magaya came close to scoring with a fierce low shot that narrowly missed. But the missed opportunities soon cost them, as the Dynamos quickly turned defense into attack, leading to Ziocha’s breakthrough in the 21st minute. Just two minutes later, Kadonzvo doubled the lead, sparking jubilation among Dinamo fans.

The platinum miners struggled to recover despite Mapeza’s tactical adjustments in the second half. Dynamos’ defense remained solid, with goalkeeper Tatenda Makoni masterfully handling the pressure.

Chigowe praised the resilience of his players and attributed their success to careful preparation and discipline. He also stated that the team’s recent performances in both the league and the Confederations Cup indicate promising potential for future success.

Mapeza acknowledged FC Platinum’s defensive mistakes, especially in two crucial moments leading up to the goals. “We started well but conceded two soft goals due to defensive confusion,” he admitted. “But I’m proud of these kids. They showed incredible maturity despite a season full of challenges.”

Defeat leaves FC Platinum with only a theoretical chance of matching Simba Bhora’s tally of 63 points, which depends on winning their remaining matches, while Simba Bhora will need to flounder completely. However, Mapeza remained optimistic and focused on the team’s growth during the season.

Teams:

Dynamos: Tatenda Makoni, Freddy Alick, Donald Dzvinyai, Shadreck Nyahwa, Frank Makarati, Kelvin Moyo, Frederick Ansa-Botchway (N. Chinyerere, 74th minute), Valentine Kadonzvo (E. Paga, 63rd minute), Tanaka Shandirwa (T . Chiwunga), 74th minute), Emmanuel Ziocha (I. Sadiki, 84th minute), Donald Mudadi (A. Musiiwa, 84th minute),

FC Platinum: David Bizabani, Bothwell Nzori, Mbongeni Ndlovu, Rainsome Pavari, Hagiazo Magaya, Devine Mhindirira, (A. Chirinda, 86th minute), Juan Mutudza (S. Mhlanga, 61st minute), Davison Marowa (B. Kusinyera, 61st minute), Polyester Shoko (K. Mangiza, 46th minute), Oscar Bhebhe (J. Selemani, 40th minute), Panashe Mutimbanyoka

Results at a glance

Yesterday: Chegutu Pirates 2-1 Chicken Inn, Dynamos 2-0 FC Platinum, Highlanders 4-0 Greenfuel, Hwange 2-1 Manica Diamonds

Saturday: Bulawayo Chiefs 1-0 Arenel Movers, Ngezi Platinum 1-1 Bikita Minerals, Simba Bhora 2-1 CAPS United, Telone 0-1 Herentals, Yadah 1-1 ZPC Kariba