Ngezi knocked out of Chibuku Super Cup

Ngezi Platinum Stars . . . . . . . . . (0) 1 Herentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) 2

A man-of-the-match performance by Tinotenda Benza yesterday helped 10-men Herentals knock out two-time finalists Ngezi Platinum Stars from this year’s edition of the Chibuku Super Cup.

After featuring in the last two finals, Ngezi failed to make it three in a row, as they went down 2-1 at the hands of the Students.

An own-goal in the first half by Polite Moyo and a well-executed finish by the young Benza cancelled out second-half substitute Tinotenda Musariranwa’s goal for the hosts.

The Mhondoro-based outfit dominated the early stages of the match, creating numerous opportunities, only to be let down by their lack of accuracy in the final third.

Despite playing second fiddle for much of the opening stages of the game, Herentals took the lead when Polite Moto beat his own goalkeeper in an attempt to clear the lines following pressure from Tinotenda Benza pressure in the 13th minute.

Having been forced to rely on counter-raids, Herentals found their second goal of the afternoon on the hour-mark.

A perfectly-flighted cross from Prince Chama on the right flank found an unmarked Benza, who then had the simple task of tapping in from close range.

Unfortunately, Herentals were then reduced to 10 men in the 79th minute when Chama was given his marching orders for a second-bookable offence.

With a one-man advantage, Ngezi Platinum Stars began to pile on pressure on the visitors and were awarded when Musariranwa headed home Leslie Kashitugu’s corner three minutes from time.

Herentals coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva was left a happy man, describing the victory as well-deserved one.

“Progressing to the next level is what I wanted, and it was not an easy game for us.

“However, the boys did well, and it was a well-deserved victory in the end.

“We always aim to do well in cup games and now wait for the next round,” said the Herentals gaffer.

His opposite number, Takesure Chiragwi, said his charges were unlucky not to progress to the next round.

“Truly speaking, we did all we could to win the game, and we are out now.

“We have been in the final in the last two editions, and now we have been knocked out in the first round.

“We have to accept it and move on.”