Dynamos’ resurgence on the flanks has found a driving force in Leeroy Mavunga, whose performances on the left wing are quickly establishing him as one of the club’s most influential attacking outlets.
Mavunga came in as a substitute in the “Battle for Zimbabwe” and changed the tempo of the game, adding urgency to Dynamos’ attacking play. His movement stretched the Highlanders defence, with repeated forward runs that forced defenders to work overtime to track him.
He became a constant threat in advanced areas, injecting pace and directness that shifted Dynamos onto the front foot.
Mavunga had a key opportunity in the 69th minute to put Dynamos ahead but could not keep his effort on target from close range.
Mavunga pulls off a brilliant dummy, but the final execution lets him down, a moment that he admitted he should have finished the chance, instead he rushed his effort in the final third.
“I should have scored, but I think I rushed the moment. I needed to be more composed. It’s a work in progress, and I’m confident I’ll improve with each game,” he said.
Mavunga said the derby pushed him to give his best.
“It was a derby, so it naturally motivates you to be at your best,” he said.
Mavunga said he came on to make an impact and help the team win, stressing that he always gives everything for the badge whenever he is called upon, whether starting or coming off the bench.
“ When I came on, I just wanted to help the team win. Whether I start or not, when I get the chance to play, I’ll always fight for this badge.
Dynamos and Highlanders shared the spoils in a 2–2 draw at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday. Highlanders started on the front foot, showing greater intent in the opening exchanges and testing the frame of the goal in the 18th minute when Nomore Chinyerere’s long-range effort struck the upright.
Dynamos, meanwhile, struggled to settle into rhythm in possession and found it difficult to penetrate a compact Highlanders defensive block in the early stages. The visitors’ pressure eventually paid off in the 39th minute when Never Rauzhi finished a well-constructed team move, giving Highlanders a deserved half-time lead after a period of sustained attacking control.
Dynamos responded strongly after the break and found an immediate equaliser through Tellmore Pio, capitalising on a quick restart to shift momentum early in the second half. From there, the match opened up, with both sides committing numbers forward in search of control.
Highlanders regained the lead in the 78th minute through Mongameli Tshuma, who produced an impressive individual run before finishing clinically after beating several challenges inside the box. However, Dynamos showed resilience and responded four minutes later, with Collins Mujuru converting from a set-piece situation to restore parity.
Both teams pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither side could find a decisive breakthrough, as the match ended level.
Mavunga added that the dressing-room mood remains positive as the squad looks to build consistency in their next match against Bulawayo Chiefs on today.
“The morale in the camp is high, and the boys are ready to fight for the badge.”
Both teams pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither side could find a decisive breakthrough, as the match ended level. Highlanders more incisive in open play at times, while Dynamos showed character to recover twice and secure a point.
