By McGeorge Mbare
Beitbridge-Chibi high school defended their Ziyah Media soccer tournament crown by beating Vhembe high school in a penalty shootout after the two teams were deadlocked 0-0 after regulation time. The match was played at a packed Dulibadzimu stadium in Beitbridge.
In 2023 Chibi won the inaugural Ziyah media soccer tournament after defeating the same opponent school. Fast forward 2024 the Masvingo based giants of schools football had the heroics of their goalkeeper to thank after he saved two penalties in the shootout to ensure his team retain their crown.
In its road to the final, Chibi had battled against the debutants Zezani high school in their group A opening match securing a 0-0 draw before overcoming Beitbridge East’s Tongwe high school 2-0 courtesy of a brace from Worship Muza.
They qualified to the final with 4 points level with the debutants Zezani but ahead on goal difference where they managed to give Vhembe the title of being the tournament’s bridesmaid for the second year running.
Chibi also dominated in the individual awards, their top marksman Worship Muza sharing the golden boot award with Vhembe’s Philip Moyo as both players scored 2 goal each in the tournament. Emmanuel Munamati from the champions was the player of the tournament.
Meanwhile runners up Vhembe high school finished also with 4 points in group B after drawing with St Mary’s and beating debutants Swereki.
On the ladies side, two teams competed for the coveted title with Siyoka high school girls winning the title after snapping Vhembe high school girls’ 1-0.Pamela Sitapa scored the only goal of the match to secure the championship for the debutants meanwhile.Lamula Pescistage from the same school was voted the player of the tournament and the player of the man on the final.
The following are the awards won at the Ziyah media soccer tournament 2024
Boys Champions: Chibi high school boys
Runners Up: Vhembe High School
Third Place: Zezani High School
Player of the tournament: Emmanuel Munamati
Goalkeeper of the tournament –Pardon Swoto
Top scorer – Worship Muza/Philip Moyo
Ladies Champions: Siyoka secondary
Runners up Vhembe high girls
Player of the tournament: Lamula Pescistage
Top scorer: Pamela Sitapa
Golden glove: Tracy Sibanda