Gokwe hosts the Independence Cup final today between FC Platinum and Simba Bhora at Nembudziya Growth Point. This brings top football to a town once better known for folklore than sports. Local hero Energy Murambadoro feels proud that his hometown received such recognition. He became famous as the first Zimbabwean goalkeeper at the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia after CAPS United discovered him in rural Gokwe.
The Government decided to hold major sports events in smaller communities as part of its development program. Previous matches happened in Mt Darwin and Murambinda, continuing efforts to bring national celebrations to different regions. Thousands will watch stars play live right in their community today. FC Platinum aims for their third title since winning in 2012 and 2014, but coach Norman Mapeza never claimed the trophy despite joining them in 2014.
Women's football joined the celebrations for the first time this year. Black Rhinos played Herentals during yesterday's Children's Party Cup. The first Independence Cup happened in 1980 when Zimbabwe beat Zambia at Rufaro. Many clubs have won it since, including Dynamos, CAPS United, and even smaller teams like Shooting Stars.
The Government decided to hold major sports events in smaller communities as part of its development program. Previous matches happened in Mt Darwin and Murambinda, continuing efforts to bring national celebrations to different regions. Thousands will watch stars play live right in their community today. FC Platinum aims for their third title since winning in 2012 and 2014, but coach Norman Mapeza never claimed the trophy despite joining them in 2014.
Women's football joined the celebrations for the first time this year. Black Rhinos played Herentals during yesterday's Children's Party Cup. The first Independence Cup happened in 1980 when Zimbabwe beat Zambia at Rufaro. Many clubs have won it since, including Dynamos, CAPS United, and even smaller teams like Shooting Stars.
