By Prince Chese
Dulivhadzimu United (2) Gokwe North (1)
Dulibadzimu United collected a much-needed 2-1 victory over a spirited Gokwe North in a ZIFA Central Region Division One clash at Dulibadzimu Stadium on Saturday, 1 November 2025.
The win was Dulibadzimu United’s first of the second leg.
And the winner was a beauty that could win any match when Mike Nezungai hit the roof with a curling shot from long range towards the dying minutes of the game.
The stadium, which had been hit by victory drought erupted as the few spectators lept with boundless joy.
Nezungai had been a culprit of many missed chances when lady luck wrapped in a clever shot left his foot.
Gokwe’s keeper Lient Bhudiyo who had been spoiling the party for Nezungai was left a bystander as the dribbling wizard seemingly punished him for stopping his earlisr effort from a free kick.
Some 10 minutes earlier the towring Muneripi parried off Nezungai’s well struck free kick from 30 metres.
Head coach Fortune Ncube praised his players for their strong second-half performance.
“It was a game of two halves. In the first half, we played in phases, but in the second half, we increased the intensity, changed our shape, and managed to get the three points,” said Ncube.
He also highlighted the team’s fighting spirit and tactical discipline.
“They stepped up, played with urgency, and showed great character. We kept Gokwe North under pressure. The winning goal was special the kind of goal that wins matches,” he said.
The game started evenly, but Dulibadzimu United grew stronger after the break, using the energy from their home supporters to push forward.
Team Liaison Officer Knowledge Nyoni said the support from the community made a big difference.
“The soccer gods smiled on us. Everyone played their part club owners, fans, and supporters. The song ‘Mananga Matete’ and drumbeats lifted the boys’ spirits. This is the beginning of greater things,” said Nyoni.
Team manager Fednard ‘Mashefu’ Matete had spoken to Ziyah NewsNetwork before the match, expressing the need for a win to restore fan confidence.
“We were preparing well and looking forward to our first win of the second round. Our fans were beginning to lose hope after 10 losses, two draw, and only one win,” said Matete.
After the match, Matete thanked the fans and stressed the importance of finishing the season strong.
“We thank our fans who always stand with us. Now we focus on the next game away against Blanket Mine. We need more points to finish in a respectable position,” he said.
Dulibadzimu United are away to Gwanda for stubborn West Nicholson this weekend before coming home for their last match against Hardrock.