The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
GOLDEN Eagles coach Gilbert Mushangazhike is predicting some exciting and challenging matches in the upcoming US$20 000 Axis Solutions Super 8 tournament.
The tournament, which is the premier knockout competition for the Northern Region Soccer League, had its draw conducted at the sponsors’ offices in Harare on Wednesday.
The top-eight teams as at halfway mark of the current season qualified for the knockout tournament.
Mushangazhike’s Eagles, who topped the log during the period under review, were drawn to play Ngezi Under-19, who are coached by his former Blackpool teammate, Klifton Kadurira.
A potential thriller is on the cards when Simba Bhora play Chegutu Pirates.
Ambitious Herentals Under-20 were drawn against Black Mambas, while Commando Bullets have a date against unpredictable Trojan Stars.
The first match, which is the highly anticipated clash between Simba Bhora and Chegutu Pirates, is set for April 16.
There will be one match per week until April 30, when the first semi-final will be staged, while the final will bring the curtain down on the season.
Mushangazhike, who replaced Joel Luphahla at Eagles, is expecting tough match from the platinum miners.
“This sponsorship is so inspiring and it gives us the strength to push on.
“This promises to be an exciting tournament. Remember, there are no longer any small teams,” said Mushangazhike.
Northern Region chairperson Martin Kweza has pledged to deliver a transparent and scandal-free tournament.
“This is a sign of a sound and smooth relationship between our league and Axis Solutions.
“This is confirmation of a smooth-sailing sponsorship package.”
Kweza is credited with transforming the Northern Region Soccer League into one of the most followed competitions in the country.
Axis Solutions chief executive officer Brian Mukudzavhu said they were proud to ploughing back into the community.
“We are more than proud to be sponsoring this tournament. It is my appeal to the teams: We want our brand to be protected.
“After Covid-19 we really needed to go out and play soccer, hence we are ploughing back into a society that supports us,” he said.
There will be individual awards, with Player of the Tournament walking away US$500 richer.
Coach of the Tournament is guaranteed US$400, while Goalkeeper of the Tournament will pocket US$300.
A US$300 payout will go to the Golden Boot winner.
