HARARE - Hosts Zimbabwe got off to a flying start in their opening Group A match of the COSAFA Senior Challenge Cup tournament after hammering Mauritius 3-0 at Rufaro Stadium yesterday.The victory torched scenes of celebrations in the streets of Harare but more importantly it ensured Zimbabwe remained in search of their fourth regional title after winning the coveted cup in 2000, 2003 and 2005.
Dynamos hitman Cuthbert Malajila was the hero of the day as he scored a brace in the second half before captain Method Mwanjali weighed in with the third goal with four minutes remaining to grab the maximum three points.
Mauritius who caused a major upset in the COSAFA Cup history when they beat three time winners South Africa in 2004 found the Warriors resolute in defence as they failed to unlock them.
Although Mauritius started brightly dictating the pace, they failed to breach the Warriors defence marshalled by captain Mwanjali and Daniel Vheremu. They did well to hold the Warriors in the first half. But in the second half the Warriors were in an uncompromising mood and got their three goals through Malajila who scored a double in the 47th minute, 56th minute and Mwanjali who scored the final goal at the stroke of full time.
The Warriors will now need to win their next match against Lesotho at the same venue on Monday to qualify to the quarter finals of the tournament.
Post published in: Football