The Mashonaland West Division 2B playoffs delivered a cruel twist of fate on Sunday at Chinhoyi Stadium, as Chingwere FC defeated Barca Kadoma FC 4-2 on penalties following a goalless draw. The win seals Chingwere's spot in the next phase of the promotion race, while leaving Barca Kadoma utterly dejected after a heroic performance.
The atmosphere was electric, with supporters from both Kadoma and Chinhoyi creating an energetic atmosphere.
In an interview with NewsDay, Chingwere FC head coach Ntongazabo Bhachi described the match as a balanced struggle but attributed it to Barca Kadoma FC’s powerful strike force.
"This was a difficult game, I must say. My team is not really good on attacking, thus why we were like defending in the last minutes of the second half. Barca Kadoma FC are very good on attacking; we have been following their games. But in the end, this is a game of football and the best team wins," Bhachi added.
The playoff encounter was one of fair play right from the first whistle, marked by tactical discipline.
Barca Kadoma, known for their quick passing game, dominated possession for large spells of the match, marshaled expertly by their midfielder, Tinashe Kambuzuma.
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- Penalty heartbreak: Chingwere FC edge Barca Kadoma in Division 2B playoffs
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Chingwere FC relied on their solid defensive shape.
Barca Kadoma FC head coach Gift Tembo also acknowledged that they missed a lot of chances in the second half.
"We changed our strategy going into the second half and we created so many chances which we failed to convert. This was a tough game; all the best to Chingwere FC as they continue their race to Division One," Tembo told NewsDay.
The penalty shootout transformed Chinhoyi Stadium into a scene of ecstatic celebration after the winning penalty was calmly slotted into the back of the net.
