Mutemera warry of GZU trap ahead of Munhumutapa clash

Tenax CS FC head coach Gibson Mutemera is refusing to get carried away.

Despite his Prison Officers riding a six-match unbeaten run, Mutemera says Tenax will take a cautious approach when they host Great Zimbabwe University Football Club this Sunday in the first round of the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup.

The clash is set for Mutare Boys High, and the Tenax boss knows exactly what to expect from The Students.

“GZU really gave us a torrid time a few weeks ago in a Pacific Storm league match,” Mutemera told Fanzone. “Yes, we won that game, but it was not easy at all. They are organized, they run, and they don’t fear anyone. We have to respect them.”

That narrow league win over GZU was the spark Tenax needed.

It triggered a resurgence that has seen the Prison Officers go six matches unbeaten in the ERSL.

Mutemera however insists past form means nothing in cup football.

“Cup games are different. One mistake and you are out,” he said. “The Students are a difficult opponent. We cannot afford to be complacent just because we are unbeaten. We have to be at our best for 90 minutes.”

Tenax’s ambitions in the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup are clear. With millions on the line in Zimbabwe’s richest knockout competition, Mutemera wants a deep run.

“I hope we will progress to the next round,” he said. “We also really want to go all the way in this multimillion Zimbabwean cup tournament. The boys know what’s at stake. Every round pays, and we want that for the club and the fans.”

If Tenax get past GZU, a heavyweight second-round tie awaits against the winner between Renco Mine FC and Yadah FC.

But Mutemera will have to plot Sunday’s win without two key men. Defender Irvine Gwenzi and midfielder Takudzwa Madziwa are both ruled out with injuries.

“Injuries are part of football,” Mutemera said. “We will miss Irvine and Takudzwa, but this is a squad game. Whoever comes in must grab the chance. The mentality is next man up.”

Kick-off at Mutare Boys High on Sunday. Tenax unbeaten in six, but Mutemera is taking nothing for granted.

“We respect GZU. We prepare well. Then we fight to go through.”