The Sunday Mail
Langton Nyakwenda
WARRIORS and Dynamos’ number one Tatenda Mukuruva believes working with Gift “Umbro” Muzadzi, a veteran goalie who played for Zimbabwe at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Egypt, has raised his game to another level.
The 41-year-old Muzadzi, who featured for Dynamos in the 1998 CAF Champions League final, has been in charge of Mukuruva’s development at club level since December 2014 when he retraced his roots back from Triangle.
“Coach Umbro has a huge influence in my game, he played at the Afcon finals the last time Zimbabwe qualified and his knowledge of the trade is helpful. He gives me tips everyday but I won’t reveal them, it’s our secret,” said Mukuruva.
The 20-year-old goalkeeper has become a key national team player since June 13, 2015 when he made his Warriors debut against Malawi in a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
He has conceded twice in the three Afcon qualifiers he has played and kept a fine clean sheet when the Warriors romped to a 4-0 victory over Swaziland’s Sihlangu on Easter Monday.
As the Warriors brace for next Sunday’s crucial Afcon qualifier against The Flames of Malawi, Mukuruva paid tribute to Dynamos goalkeepers coach Muzadzi.
“It’s a tough match but we have to get maximum points at all costs. Whatever we do, we should ensure we win on June 5.”
Zimbabwe will qualify for Afcon 2017 if they beat Malawi and Guinea fail to win in Swaziland.
“This is the greatest chance for us to qualify for the Afcon finals and it is every African player’s dream to play at the finals. But I know God has a plan for me to play at the finals and I am also working extra hard so that I play there.
“Age doesn’t matter much, it is a matter of hard work. The fans should also come in numbers and support us all the way,” said Mukuruva.
