Story by Raynald Ngwarati
DYNAMOS have lifted the first silverware of the 2025 domestic league calendar after registering a 5-3 penalty win over Simba Bhora in the Castle Challenge Cup at Rufaro Stadium this Saturday.
Not even the rains could stop the celebrations in Mbare as Chibuku Super Cup holders Dynamos certified themselves as cup kings by beating Premiership champions Simba Bhora 5-3 in the dreaded penalty shootout after the match ended one all in regulation time.
Simba Bhora thought they would get the bragging rights after drawing first blood a couple of minutes after halftime courtesy of Ishe Mauchi, but Dynamos refused to be hurried with just three minutes of regulation time left on the clock as Clive Mandiveyi levelled matters to force extra time.
While the rains dominated extra time, there was nothing to separate the two champions from last campaign forcing spot kicks.
Playing in their home stadium, Dynamos had a show to deliver for their fans, converting all of their spot kicks while Ishmael Nyanhi was denied by Dynamos goalkeeper Prince Tafiremutsa to send fans into a frenzy and kick-off the 2025 domestic season laden with a US$30 000 cheque.
“What we need is consistency now, because consistency is the mark of a good side. If we can be consistent then next season we will put in a good show,” Dynamos Head Coach, Lloyd Chigowe said.
“The guys played well and it’s unfortunate that we had to lose through penalties, however, I am proud of the boys, they are showing their hunger and definitely come the season they will be at their best. It will be hard to emulate stanza’s championship winning season, but the boys as you can see have been putting in the work,” Simba Bhora Head Coach, Joel Lupahla said.
Both Dynamos and Simba Bhora experienced a massive player exodus during off season but have been rebuilding to mount a challenge in the campaign which gets underway on the first of next month.
