Sambandou United Professionals beat Phandulaluvalo FC 2-0 to book a place in the semifinal stage of the Mulindavhathu Soccer Challenge at the Khubvi Benjies grounds on Saturday.
The score was not a true reflection of the game as Phandulaluvalo squandered numerous scoring chances within the first 20 minutes. It took them only a few minutes to realize that it was not their day. Mbebo Nephawe received a beautiful pass from Phathutshedzo Masindi, but his ground cutter hit the woodwork and landed outside the field of play.
Professionals gained momentum as the game approached the half-time mark. Unlike Phandulaluvalo, Professionals made use of whatever chances they got. Their captain, Tshivhona Nthangeni, who scored a brace in the match, made his presence felt in the 39th minute. He capitalized on Ndivhuwo Ramunwana's clearing error and beat the keeper with a half volley.
Phandulaluvalo did not stop fighting after conceding the first goal. They continued to fight collectively, but their strikers were unlucky. United had another scoring chance early in the last half. Tshimangadzo Munzhelele forced his way through the defence of Phandulaluvalo, but he lost possession just before he unleashed from inside the box.
United Professionals increased the margin in the 78th minute. Tshivhona Nthangeni was on target with a long-range volley. The keeper of Phandulaluvalo, Millet Rambuda, watched helplessly as the ball hit the crossbar and landed across the goal line.
The referee, Mr Christopher Mugeri, was forced to stop the fast-flowing game after Murangi Likhala of Phandulaluvalo sustained serious injury after colliding head-on with an opponent.