In a momentous occasion, President Emmerson Mnangagwa today officially launched the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup, Zimbabwe’s biggest football knockout tournament, with a staggering US$25 million sponsorship deal spread over five years.
The competition promises to revolutionize Zimbabwean football, featuring all 18 Premiership clubs, lower division teams, and Area Zones, with beach soccer and futsal also included.
For Mutare-based ZIFA Manicaland Division 2 side La Sakubva Football Club, the Munhumutapa Cup is a dream come true.
The club, which recently commemorated its 24th anniversary, has a rich history of producing talented players like Washington Arubi, Onsimo Bhasera, Tichaona Mabvura, Ask Rupande, and Fortune Bhinzi, thanks to the founding vision of renowned coach Timothy Masachi.
In exclusive interview with Fanzone Secretary General Lispoh Rugaro is excited about the competition which he believes resonate with their mantra of grassroots development of football.
”As a member of La Sakubva FC, we’re delighted and curious about the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup, which resonates with our club’s mission to nurture young talent in Mutare. As a member of La Sakubva, we find life in anything that has football as the founder of our mission Coach Sicho ‘lives for football’.”
Rugaro highlights the competition’s potential for growth and development, particularly for smaller teams like La Sakubva. “The five-year plan is commendable, offering a platform for learning, growth, and development. It’s a fantastic opportunity for academies and small teams to gain exposure, compete, and learn from others.”
The club is eager to participate, focusing on junior football inclusion and development. “We’re even more excited about participating and showcasing our junior players’ skills on a bigger stage as we use these in Division 2 for transition. Our focus remains on junior football inclusion and development. La Sakubva is committed to ensuring young players benefit from this initiative, gaining valuable experience and opportunities to grow,” said Rugaro.
Rugaro emphasizes the importance of stakeholder involvement for the competition’s success. “It’s crucial that all stakeholders, including local authorities, sponsors, coaches, players, and the community, are involved in the planning, implementation, and monitoring phases, ensuring ownership of the game by the rightful custodians.”
With its inclusive format, massive sponsorship deal, and focus on development, the Munhumutapa Cup is set to be a game-changer for Zimbabwean football.
