Mangombe explains early Gwatidzo substitution in ‘Battle of Zimbabwe’

Dynamos coach Genesis Mangombe has explained his bold decision to withdraw rising star Anotidaishe Gwatidzo after only 29 minutes during ‘The Battle of Zimbabwe’ against Highlanders FC on Sunday at Barbourfields stadium.

‘Kaka’ Mangombe made the shocking decision to pull out the 22-year-old in the 29th minute, replacing him with Jairos Kasondo.

While the Dembare faithful were left stunned by the decision, Mangombe believes it was a masterstroke that fixed a midfield error which had allowed Bosso to dominate Dembare in the early exchanges.

Still, Highlanders managed to penetrate, with Mongameli Tshuma winning a penalty that was converted easily by Nigerian striker Benjamin Adeogun just after the 40 minute mark.

The Bulawayo giants led at half-time, but Dynamos turned the screws, with Perfect Chikwende orchestrating a brilliant move that was finished off with a sweeping goal by Ghanaian Frank Agyemang on the 54th minute.

However, for Mangombe, the turning point may have been the 29th minute when he substituted Gwatidzo, a rising star who has won the hearts of the Dynamos faithful.

‘WE HAVE TO PROTECT HIM’ SAYS GENESIS MANGOMBE

In his post-match comments, Mangombe explained why he withdrew Gwatidzo early in the biggest match in the PSL, saying he was protecting the attacking midfielder.

“It was because of overloads and he was also lost. I think he was affected by the crowd, especially at this end. At the same time, he was out of position and the overloads were too much for him. So we decided we have to protect him and use him when we play at home next week,” Mangombe said.

Gwatidzo is enjoying his game in a new role. Mangombe converted the Mbare-bred footballer from left-back into an attacking central midfielder, and Gwatidzo has been a revelation.

Gwatidzo established himself as Yadah’s first-choice left back before sealing a move to Dynamos ahead of the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.

With Abel Gwatidzo now providing cover at left back, Mangombe opted to deploy Anotidaishe in midfield to capitalize on his tactical awareness.

RELATED STORY:Mangombe banks on defense as Dynamos face unbeaten Ngezi Platinum Stars