THE Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) is targeting raising $30 000 from the semi-final of the Commander ZNA’s Charities Soccer Shield tie pitting Highlanders and FC Platinum at Barbourfields (BF) Stadium on Sunday. FORTUNE MBELE SPORTS REPORTER
The army has taken advantage of the postponement of league matches this weekend because of the Warriors first leg of African Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier against Tanzania in Dar es Salaam on Sunday, to host matches to raise funds for their various charitable organisations that include schools and convalescence centres for soldiers.
Major Fabion Chitungo of Commander ZNA’s Charities Soccer Shield yesterday said they were expecting 15 000 to 20 000 to throng BF on Sunday to watch the match, with the gate charges pegged at $2.
“We are expecting at least 15 000 to 20 000 fans for the match and we are just being guided by the performance of the teams. Highlanders are a very popular side and are doing very well in the league and obviously FC Platinum will be bussing their supporters from Zvishavane. It is a match that is definitely going to bring a number of people to the stadium.
“With the gate charges at $2 and as we expect about 15 000 spectators, that will translate to about $30 000. We want people to come,” Major Chitungo said.
He said as part of entertainment, they were talking to Bulawayo-based musician Jeys Marabini and that would definitely attract the crowds to BF.
Highlanders head coach Kelvin Kaindu said the match would be a blessing in disguise considering that they will be no league matches this weekend.
Some of the Bosso players who have not featured regularly since the start of the league could see themselves in the starting line-up.
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That includes the likes of goalkeeper Njabulo “Popo” Nyoni, Hillary Madzivanyika, Cleopas Dube, Joel “Josta” Ngodzo, Khumbulani Banda and Valentine Ndaba.
Players that make up the juniors quota — Mgcini Sibanda, Grasiano Chakafana, Godfrey Makaruse, Nkosana Maseko and Bothwell Nyathi — could also feature on Sunday.
At FC Platinum, coached by Lloyd Mutasa, players that have not been regular are Tenderu Duri, Leo Chawira, Tafadzwa Mukahlera and Nigel Gezani.
The second semi-final pits Harare giants Dynamos and Caps United at the National Sports Stadium.
