Since Thursday, May 21, talk on the football scene has been how Godfrey Murwira always finds love with every coach who is appointed to handle the Warriors.
The most held view was that he carries with him a love portion called 'mudiwa-diwa' that makes everyone around like or love him.
This was - to some extent - buttressed by the fact that even at Scottland Football Club there has been a massive clear out of players failing to command team places, but Murwira has not been affected.
First. It was German national, Michael Nees who was always criticised for calling Murwira to the squad with the contention being that the player did not deserve a call up, but Nees always stuck to his decision.
Then came Romanian Marian Marinica, who against all expectations named Murwira in his final 23-member squad for the Afcon 2025 finals.
Now new coach Zimbabwean Kaitano Tembo has taken Murwira to London for the Unity Cup tie against the Super Eagles of Nigeria even though Murwira is failing to command a team place at Scottland.
What exactly is it with Murwira ?
Those who do not believe in superstition suspect that Murwira has a powerful relative within Zifa or has someone influential within the association on his side.
- Does Murwira have 'Mudiwa-diwa' ?
Keep Reading
However, those who prefer to joke laugh it off saying it is the Warriors themselves who demand Murwira's presence because he makes them happy with his singing in camp.
Whatever the case is - mudiwa-diwa or not - Murwira is in London enjoying the cool weather - and if he drinks - will probably have a taste of my favourite Berks Lager after the game on May 26.
Not forgetting that, that game will surely be a real test for coach Tembo who will - unfortunately - be judged on the strength of his team's performance in that game only.
Moreso, that Nigeria are not fielding their best side and are missing their big names Ademola, Lookman, Victor Osinhem, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Bassey and Zimbabwe are fielding the best they have.
That judgment also coming after Tembo's predecessors Baltermar Brito and Michael Nees - both- did not lose but held full strengths Super Eagles sides to draws.
It certainly is a tall order but one that Tembo can overcome, although, we believe one game is not enough to judge how good a coach is
*For your comments, views, and suggestions [email protected] or Whatsapp on 0773 266 779.
