Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWEAN international and Paris FC midfielder, Marshall Munetsi has commended President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa for supporting football development after the launch of the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup, which kicked off last weekend.
The Munhumutapa Challenge Cup was launched by President Mnangagwa in March and the first-round matches kicked off last weekend across the country.
The tournament, which carries a sponsorship package worth 25 million United States dollars over the next five years, has been hailed as a major boost for Zimbabwean football.
Munetsi says the competition is one of the biggest developments in the country’s football history as it caters for the entire football ecosystem from grassroots to top-flight football.
“The introduction of the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup is a massive development for football. This is not just another tournament for me; it is one of the biggest competitions in our football history. What makes it even more special is that it speaks to the entire football ecosystem, from grassroots football and lower divisions right up to the top level. I would also like to sincerely thank His Excellency, President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa for investing in the game and believing that football can change lives,” he said.
“Football has the power to unite communities, create opportunities, build careers and inspire people. This level of support shows belief in the potential of Zimbabwean football, and I think everyone can be proud of this initiative. Even for some of us playing in Europe, people were surprised when they heard about the prize money involved. It shows that Zimbabwean football is getting the attention of the world, and that is exactly what we want for our game.”
The on-loan Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder also praised new club owners for revitalising domestic football and urged supporters to continue backing the local game.
“I would encourage Zimbabweans to continue filling up the stadiums and supporting local football. Even from abroad, we can see how football is growing back home. There are so many strong teams and so much competition now. Development begins at home, so people must continue rallying behind the clubs, the competitions and the players representing the country.”
Munetsi has been out of the Warriors set-up since suffering an injury last year, before a fallout with the then-Warriors coach Marian Marinica.
Indications are that the talented midfielder could soon return to the national team fold, with interim Warriors coach Kaitano Tembo reportedly keen on bringing him back into the squad.
