By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
In a thrilling encounter at Nyamhunga Stadium, CAPS United and ZPC Kariba battled to a goalless draw on Saturday, May 2, 2025.
The match was characterized by a flurry of near-misses and intense moments, as both teams fought hard but ultimately failed to find the back of the net.
The contest kicked off with immediate energy, with ZPC Kariba’s Fanuel Shoko almost scoring in the 2nd minute after a well-placed cross from Charles Munyanyi.
However, his shot went off target, setting the tone for a match filled with opportunities that went begging. CAPS United’s Dzingai Jimmy responded swiftly, breaking through the ZPC defense only to see his effort sail wide in the 7th minute.
Both teams showcased their determination throughout the first half, exchanging chances with neither able to gain the upper hand. ZPC Kariba’s Munashe Kamwendo came close in the 19th minute, narrowly missing a header from Samuel Makawa’s cross, while CAPS United’s Jayden Bakari had a header saved comfortably by ZPC goalkeeper Future Sibanda in the 37th minute.
As the second half unfolded, the intensity increased, with both teams seeking a decisive goal. CAPS United’s Rodwel Chinyengetere created several threatening moments, but his attempts either drifted wide or were expertly thwarted by Sibanda. ZPC Kariba’s Kuzivakwashe Madima also had a promising chance in the 65th minute, but his shot struck the CAPS United defensive wall.
Despite the lack of goals, the match was anything but dull. The physicality of the game was evident, with several players feeling the strain. In the 57th minute, CAPS United’s Jimmy Dzingai sustained an injury following a collision with Shoko, while ZPC Kariba‘s Boid Mutukure received a yellow card in the 32nd minute for a foul on Bakari. Tanaka Shandirwa of CAPS United also faced a caution in the 44th minute for dissent.
After the final whistle, ZPC Kariba coach Newton Chitewe reflected on the match, stating, “We were pleased with the team’s effort and determination, but unfortunately, we couldn’t capitalize on our chances. Fatigue from our midweek match was a factor, but we’ll regroup and prepare for the next game.”
Meanwhile, CAPS United’s second assistant coach Tonderai Marume emphasized the need for improvement: “We had some good moments in the first half, but we couldn’t convert our chances into goals. We will review the game and work on our finishing to ensure we capitalize on our opportunities in the next match.”
As both teams look ahead, they will aim to turn their near-misses into victories in their upcoming fixtures, with the draw serving as a reminder of the competitive nature of the league.
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