TEAM NEWS: Mudzuka Races Against Time, Matinha Suspended as MWOS Host Leaders Simba Bhora
MWOS FC Media | August 14, 2025
MWOS FC return to MWOS Ngoni Stadium this Saturday, August 16th, for a crunch Castle Lager Premiership encounter against table-topping Simba Bhora (3:00 PM KO). The reverse fixture saw an entertaining stalemate at Wadzanayi Stadium, and Head Coach Lloyd Mutasa is demanding his charges harness home advantage to upset the league leaders.
Gaffer’s Outlook: Building Momentum Against the Best
Speaking ahead of the crucial clash, Mutasa emphasised the importance of carrying recent positive form into the league battle. “We are building on our last result [in the Chibuku Super Cup],” stated the gaffer, “and we would like to bring that form into our league game this Saturday. We have been in a rut in the league, but the win against Caps United provided us the boost we need to approach the upcoming game with confidence.”
Acknowledging the Simba Challenge
Mutasa showed full respect for the formidable task ahead against the league pacesetters and their experienced tactician. “Simba Bhora are a dominant side being coached by an expert, Joe Lupahla, so it won’t be an easy game,” he conceded. “They are top of the league, and that says a lot about their performance levels this season. However, they will be playing us at our fortress, and with our fans in full voice behind us, we believe we should be able to get something out of the game.”
Injury & Suspension Update: Late Fitness Test for Mudzuka, Matinha Banned
The squad news presents a mixed picture:
Malvern Mudzuka (Midfielder): DOUBTFUL – The midfielder is in a race against time. He missed last week’s cup tie with discomfort and remains under assessment. “We are seeing if Malvern will be fit,” Mutasa confirmed. “He had some discomfort… We will make a call in the next 24-48 hours after monitoring him closely.”
Nigel Matinha (Midfielder): OUT – The influential winger serves a mandatory suspension, forcing a tactical reshuffle in the engine room. “Nigel Matinha is, of course, out due to suspension,” Mutasa acknowledged, adding they would “look at the options available from the bench.”
Squad Fitness: BOOST – Aside from Mudzuka and Matinha, Mutasa delivered positive news: “The rest of the squad should be fit and available for selection.” This means the core group that secured the win over Caps United is ready.
Projected Squad & Key Absences
Barring late setbacks, Mutasa has a strong core to select from:
Goalkeepers: Martin Mapisa, Francis Tizayi, Takunda Manomano
Defenders: Innocent Zambezi, Tafadzwa Nyabunze, Valentine Katsande, Clive Kwangwari, Godfrey Manase, Tafadzwa George
Midfielders: Abubakar Moffat, Gift Saunyama, Tinotenda Mutyambizi, Mathew Sergio Murambiwa, Tyrone Matongorere, Noah Simango, Tinotenda Majamanda, Prosper Mawoyo, Sean Saeni, Malvern Mudzuka (doubtful)
Forwards: Innocent Masiiwa, Billy Veremu, Arthur Banda, Wilson Mensah, Ethan Tamson, Takudzwa Mutenheri, Everson Feremba, Jeremiah Makangira, Salif Cheya (Matinha OUT)
Key Absences: Matinha (Suspension), Mudzuka (Doubtful – Knock).
The Task Ahead: Fortress Ngoni Needs to Roar
With Simba Bhora setting the pace, Saturday presents a massive challenge but also a prime opportunity for MWOS FC. Banking on the momentum from our Caps United win and the fervent support expected at a packed MWOS Ngoni Stadium, Mutasa’s men will aim to be compact, disciplined, and clinical on the counter. Overcoming the absence of the suspended Matinha and potentially Mudzuka will test the squad’s depth, but the message is clear: belief is high that the Aviator Boys can claw vital points off the league leaders on home turf. All eyes will be on the team sheet come Saturday afternoon.
Posted on https://mwosfc.co.zw – Thursday, August 14, 2025