03/08/2026
THE MUTOKO DERBY ENDS IN CONTROVERSY
The much-anticipated Mutoko Derby between Mutoko United and Mannyset FC attracted a huge crowd at Chikondoma Stadium on Sunday afternoon, with supporters filling the stands long before kick-off in anticipation of one of the biggest fixtures in local football.
However, before the match could get underway, controversy emerged regarding the teams’ playing kits. The home side, Mutoko United, took to the field wearing dark blue, while the visitors, Mannyset FC, were dressed in black, raising concerns over the similarity of the colours.
The situation escalated during the pre-match vetting process when five Mannyset FC players reportedly failed to produce their official League Identity Cards. Guided by league regulations, Mutoko United objected to the participation of the five players, insisting that the rules be followed.
According to reports and speculation, Mannyset FC declined to proceed with the match without the players in question. League officials, referees and representatives from both teams engaged in lengthy discussions in an effort to resolve the matter, but the visitors maintained that they would be disadvantaged if the five players were excluded.
After approximately 45 minutes of deliberations and unsuccessful attempts to find common ground, the match officials, acting on the guidance of league authorities, blew the final whistle without a ball being kicked.
The result was subsequently awarded in favour of Mutoko United as a forfeited match by Mannyset FC.
As events continue to unfold, more information is expected from league officials and both clubs regarding the circumstances that led to the abandonment of one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow as additional details emerge.
