Futbol Club de NRG faced off against Chiedza Stars in a gripping league home match at the Estadio De Mortuary on 29 June 2025, with the contest ending in a 1-1 draw. The match, which kicked off at 3:00 pm, showcased both teams' determination, but neither could secure the vital three points.
Futbol Club de NRG adopted a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Tichaona Tichaona donned the gloves as the goalkeeper, shielded by a back four comprising Joseph Kalusa on the right, Craig Madhochi and Casper Mubika as central defenders, and Darlington Kalusa on the left. In front of them, Jona T Moto operated as a central midfielder, tasked with linking play and providing support to the attackers. The attacking trio featured Leon Chipfakacha on the right, Blessing Marikopo on the left, and Smart Samatiya leading the line as the striker, with Muguza Victor and Riddancious Kachirika providing width and pace on the flanks.
The substitutes for Futbol Club de NRG included Emmanuel Marikopo, Douglas Zhanewo, Darlington Zindoga, and Lloyd Nyandoro, ready to make an impact from the bench as the match unfolded.
The first half saw an intense battle, with both teams vying for control. However, the match took a turn in the 34th minute when Darlington Kalusa received a yellow card for serious foul play, a decision that highlighted the physical nature of the encounter. Just two minutes later, Chiedza Stars capitalised on a set piece, scoring with a left-footed strike to take the lead in the 36th minute, leaving Futbol Club de NRG trailing as they headed into the break.
At half-time, with the score at 1-0, Futbol Club de NRG made tactical adjustments, bringing on Emmanuel Marikopo for Muguza Victor and Douglas Zhanewo for Riddancious Kachirika, both substitutions aimed at injecting fresh energy into the attack as they sought to level the score.
The second half began with renewed vigour from Futbol Club de NRG, and their persistence paid off in the 53rd minute. Smart Samatiya found the back of the net, converting a well-placed cross from Jona T Moto, showcasing the team's ability to execute a cohesive team move. The equaliser ignited the home crowd and breathed new life into Futbol Club de NRG's performance.
As the match progressed, Futbol Club de NRG continued to push for a winner. In the 65th minute, Darlington Zindoga replaced Blessing Marikopo, further altering the dynamics of the midfield. The home side maintained pressure, but as the clock ticked down, they made another change in the 80th minute, with Lloyd Nyandoro coming on for Joseph Kalusa, aiming to solidify their defensive line while still looking for opportunities to snatch a late goal.
Despite their efforts, the match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils, ending in a 1-1 draw. Futbol Club de NRG will reflect on missed opportunities, while Chiedza Stars will be pleased with their resilience in securing a point away from home. The match was a testament to the competitive spirit of both sides, setting the stage for an intriguing remainder of the league season.
