By Staff Reporter
Masvingo– FC Masvingo emerged champions of a New Year’s football tournament held at Mufakose Ground in Chiredzi on January 4, 2026, finishing top of the standings with seven points after an entertaining day of action involving Medical Old Timers, Mpapa Legends and MaYard.
The New Year’s Tournament, organised as part of pre-season preparations for the 2026 season, featured six matches played in a round-robin format. Although there were no trophies at stake, ceremonial achievements were awarded, and the event attracted a lively crowd.
FC Masvingo sealed the title in Game Five, beating Medical Old Timers 2–0 through goals from Bernard Matenga and Alex Harirari, a result that confirmed their triumph before the final match of the day.
Earlier, FC Masvingo had shown great character in a 2–2 draw against Mpapa Legends after trailing 2–0 at half-time, with Matenga and Victor Hlabwani scoring in the second half. They also registered a 2–0 win over MaYard, with Robert Tangai converting a penalty before Harirari sealed the victory.
The opening match of the tournament saw MaYard and Medical Old Timers play to a goalless draw, while Mpapa Legends and Medical Old Timers later shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw. In the final match, MaYard shocked Mpapa Legends 1–0, handing the underdogs a morale-boosting win.
At the end of the tournament, FC Masvingo topped the table with seven points, followed by MaYard on four points, while Mpapa Legends and Medical Old Timers both finished on two points.
On the individual front, Alex Harirari and Bernard Matenga finished as joint top goal scorers, while Brandon Mvura was named Best Goalkeeper after recording two clean sheets.
The tournament also stood out for its inclusivity, with Marvelous Masukume becoming the only female player to feature, turning out for FC Masvingo. She impressed with neat and composed passing and quickly became a crowd favourite, drawing loud cheers whenever she was on the ball.
Matches were officiated by qualified referees Kennias Takaendesa, Innocent Mupandasekwa and Margreth Utete, who were commended for firm control, fairness and consistent application of the Laws of the Game.
Speaking after the tournament, FC Masvingo Media and Liaison Officer Brandon Mvura said the event marked a strong start to the year.
“This is just the beginning of a better, brighter and successful future to come. We expect to maintain this level and at most go far beyond it,” said Mvura.
The tournament was organised by a board led by Fixtures Secretary Waken Machekeche, with representatives from all participating teams. It was self-sponsored, with organisers expressing hope of attracting sponsors in future, as more New Year tournaments and friendly matches are already being lined up ahead of the season.
