Philemon Jambaya
The iconic roar of the Dynamos faithful might be getting a little louder. After a vigorous pre-season camp brimming with new signings and tactical shifts, coach Genesis Mangombe’s men are shaping up nicely. But a lingering question hangs heavy in the air: can they find the bite they desperately need up front?
Just days ago, the Glamour Boys returned from a productive two-week stint in Kariba. Three resounding friendly wins against lower league sides showcased a squad adapting to Mangombe’s philosophy, one focused on attacking flair and disciplined defending. This momentum fuels their dual ambitions: conquering the CAF Confederation Cup and reclaiming the Zimbabwe Premier League title.
Dynamos weren’t shy in the transfer window, bolstering their ranks with over 10 new faces. Notable arrivals include the experienced left-back Nomore Chinyerere, the returning midfielder Temptation Chiunga, and foreign talents like Ghanaian midfielder Fredrick Botchway and Namibian striker Sadney UriKhob.
The coach has been singing the praises of several newcomers. Chinyerere’s versatility and leadership impress, while Tinotenda Makwinja’s aggressive style adds bite to the midfield. But it’s Botchway, the composed maestro, who truly stands out, dictating the tempo with his silky touch and ball-playing ability.
Despite the overall optimism, a familiar ache throbs in the Dynamos camp: the lack of clinical finishing. Last season’s goalscoring woes, with Mudadi and Chikona managing a meagre five goals each, led to a mass exodus of underperforming strikers. UriKhob, brought in to solve this crisis, showcases glimpses of brilliance but struggles with sharpness after a long layoff.
Mangombe acknowledges the challenge but remains confident. He sees potential in UriKhob and emphasises continued work to refine the attack. Time is of the essence, as the season opener, the Harare Derby against rivals CAPS United in the Mayor's Challenge Cup, looms large.
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