Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira-Zimpapers Sports Hub
WARRIORS defender Teenage Hadebe has praised Highlanders legend Johannes Ngodzo for developing young footballers in Bulawayo.
Hadebe was the guest of honour at the second edition of the Johannes Ngodzo annual football tournament.
The Zimbabwe international, who also came through the Bosso ranks, commended Ngodzo for his commitment to junior football development.
“I must say, I’m impressed with the work that Johannes Ngodzo is doing to uplift young footballers in the city.
“As someone who came through the junior ranks myself, I understand the importance of competitions like this in identifying and nurturing young talent,” said Hadebe.
Hadebe believes Ngodzo is helping in the growth of football in the country.
“Ngodzo’s dedication to giving back to the community and helping to develop the next generation of footballers is truly commendable.
“It’s initiatives like these that will help to ensure the continued growth and success of Zimbabwean football.’’
This year’s tournament, which featured Under-15 and Under-17 categories, saw Bulawayo Tigers emerge as the winners of the Under-17 boys’ division.
Mzilikazi Juniors lifted the trophy in the Under-15 division.
Bulawayo Tigers won the Under-17 boys’ tournament after finishing top in the four-team round-robin tournament.
Tigers won all three games, beating Nguboyenja 2-0 before going on to win 1-0 against Makokoba. They finished overall with nine points, followed by Mzilikazi, who won 2-0 against Makokoba, drew 1-1 with Nguboyenja, and lost to eventual champions Tigers 1-0.
In the Under-15 division, Mzilikazi Juniors won all three matches to lift the trophy.
They began with a 1-0 victory over Real Stars, followed by a 2-0 win over Oasis Nguboyenja and a 2-1 triumph over Bulawayo Tigers. Mzilikazi Juniors accumulated nine points to claim the top spot, while Real Stars finished second with four points.
Ngodzo, a former Warriors midfielder, had an illustrious career that was cut short by injury in 2003.
However, he continues to contribute to the development of young footballers through the annual tournament.
“As a former player, I have seen many talented youngsters come and go, but the ones who truly succeed are those who are willing to put in the hard work and dedication required to reach the top,” said Ngodzo.
“My advice to these young players is to stay focused, stay disciplined, and always be willing to learn and improve.”
“I also want to remind them that success in football is not just about what happens on the pitch; it’s also about how you conduct yourself off the pitch. Stay humble, stay grounded, and always remember where you come from,” said Ngodzo.
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