South African-based midfielder, Denvar Mukamba, is possibly the academy’s best-known product to date, but the latest batch of products consists of equally talented players with the potential to become full-fledged internationals soon.
Highlanders new boy Thomas Chidewu looks set to make 2014 his breakout season, while Triangle winger Malvern Gaki is also primed to take the premiership by storm. Chidewu is a centre striker who is technically gifted and quite useful in the approach play, while Gaki’s sheer skill and speed make him a potent force on the wings.
The 20-year-old former Chiredzi winger was outstanding on his international debut in the Zimbabwe Under-23 team’s recent 1-0 win over Cameroon. Chidewu only missed the tie due of club commitments.
But there were still two more DC United products in the mix in that match, with stocky Tsholotsho defensive linkman John Takawira and Dynamos winger Carlos Rusere playing the full match. DC Academy manager Takesure Chiragwi is contented with the role the academy is playing in nurturing football talent for Zimbabwe.
“We are happy with the role that we have played so far and we will continue doing our best in developing talent. We get these players at a young age and mould them into premiership material,” Chiragwi said, adding that they scout for good players even beyond Harare.
Other players in the Castle Lager Premiership, who have come through DC Academy, include FC Platinum winger Marshal Mudehwe, Devon Chafa, Charles Mukanhairi and James Marufu.
Post published in: Football