Prince Chese
Vhembe Stars Academy (1) 1 HaMoze (0) 2
DIVISION 2 side, and underdogs coming to the match, HaMoze FC signaled their intent for the upcoming season by pulling off a gritty 2–1 comeback victory over Division 1 outfit Vhembe Stars Academy in a high-stakes pre-season friendly today,18 March 2026.
The result marks a significant turnaround for Hamoze, who suffered an identical 3–1 defeat to the same opponents in their previous encounter.
This time, however, clinical finishing and a resilient second-half display allowed the lower-tier side to claim bragging rights and momentum.
Vhembe Stars started the match with the authority expected of a Division 1 side. Dominating possession with crisp, accurate passing sequences, the Academy side pinned HaMoze back for much of the opening period.
Their tactical superiority was rewarded early on as they surged into a 1–0 lead, heading into the halftime break with full control of the pitch.
The tide turned swiftly after the restart.
Hamoze returned with renewed energy, finding an equalizer early in the second half through a pinpoint cross from the right flank that was expertly converted.
Buoyed by the goal, Hamoze struck again minutes later to take a 2–1 lead, catching the Vhembe defense off guard6.
Vhembe Stars were handed a lifeline in the 80th minute when the referee pointed to the penalty spot following a defensive lapse by Hamoze.
However, the Academy failed to convert the golden opportunity, firing the spot-kick wide and effectively sealing their fate as Hamoze held firm until the final whistle.
”We are seeing real improvement, after losing to them last time, winning today against a Division 1 team shows we are not far from the level required to dominate our own league matches,” said Elijah Mawondo, Hamoze’s standout midfielder.
Hamoze Coach Tichaona Chauke echoed those sentiments but remained grounded regarding his team’s backline. “Today we realized our potential.
Defeating a Division 1 team shows we are prepared for the Division 2 season, but we still need to polish our defense to make it even stronger.”
On the losing side, the Vhembe Stars Head Coach Philimon Mutuakureva focused on his team’s inability to capitalize on their dominance.
“We controlled most of the field, which is an improvement from our last game, but we are lacking in the final third. Our strikers need to push harder; improving our finishing is our first assignment for the next training session.”