Masvingo – Masvingo’s Mucheke Stadium was a hive of activity this afternoon as home side Masvingo United FC, affectionately known as Una Una, locked horns with visiting giants Tenax FC from Mutare in an Eastern Region Division One showdown sponsored by Pacific Storm.
The match kicked off sharply at 15:00 hours and was immediately marked by high energy, disciplined formations, and tight midfield battles. Both teams showed great respect for each other’s tactics, resulting in few clear chances and minimal shots on target during the opening stages.
However, Tenax FC slowly began to assert dominance. Their patient build-up play paid off in the 38th minute when Tadiwanashe Mukamba capitalized on a rare lapse in the Masvingo defense, coolly slotting home the opener to put the visitors ahead. The goal stunned the packed Mucheke crowd and sent Tenax into halftime leading 1–0.
The match was intense and physical, with both teams fighting for every inch of the pitch. Masvingo United’s left back, Duncan, received a yellow card just two minutes into the second half, reflecting the growing tension between the sides.
Masvingo United made tactical changes in the second half in a bid to regain control. In the 62nd minute, Keith and Zivanai “Potato” were brought in to replace Mutongi and Chitambu, followed closely by Cosmas Ndevo for Mutetwa in the 63rd minute. Sibanda also came on in the 66th minute for Alexander. Despite these efforts, the visitors held their nerve and maintained their lead until the final whistle.
Godfrey Gombwe, the match commissioner, oversaw the proceedings, which were also attended by Mrs Cleopatra Matinhure, the Masvingo ZIFA provincial administrator. Local leaders, businesspeople, and fans from across the city from Victoria Range, Majange, Morning Side, Rhodene, Rujeko, and Mucheke turned up in large numbers, turning the event into a true community spectacle.
While some Masvingo United fans expressed frustration, blaming officials, the coach, or players for the surprise loss, others acknowledged that football is a game of ups and downs. “Today was just not our day,” Mr Paul Zimharo lamented.
Prominent figures spotted in the stands included ZPCS Commissioner Mr. Kondongwe, Mr. Mazhura from Masvingo City Council, and several city councillors, including Cllr Muchokwa, Cllr Zishiri, and Cllr Sheron Marombedze. After the match, Tenax head coach Blessing Madombi applauded his players, saying,
“It was a tough match against a big team with massive home support. We thank God for the 3 points. We remained disciplined and made the most of our chances. Respect to Masvingo United they gave us a real battle.”
In other Eastern Region Division One results today, FC Hunters edged Deportivo La Murambinda 1–0
Chivhu United beat Risutu Tigers 2–1
Renco Mine had a bye
Though today’s result was a blow to Masvingo United’s Premier League ambitions, the season is far from over. With the unwavering support from their fans and the tactical adjustments seen today, Una Una still has everything to play for.
