Chapungu U19 Prioritise Player Development Despite Late Defeat

Chapungu U19 suffered a late defeat to log leaders Dream Catchers in a closely contested encounter at Aspindale Sports Club yesterday.

The loss leaves the Army developmental side eighth on the log with 54 points.

Speaking to this publication after the match, Chapungu U19 coach Tongai B. Mamina said the club’s main objective is to develop players for promotion to the senior team.

With five matches remaining, Mamina wants his team to collect maximum points from their remaining fixtures while maintaining a long-term focus on player development.

“If we can manage to collect maximum points from all the games left, the better,” Mamina said.
The coach said his target is to produce three to four players ready for promotion to the senior team every season, stressing that success should not be measured by trophies alone.

Mamina also highlighted the importance of aligning the Under-19 team’s playing system and style with that of the senior side to ensure a smooth transition for players moving up.

Looking ahead to next season, he said retaining 80 percent of the current squad would be a major priority, providing a foundation for continuity and improved performance.

Mamina believes keeping the core of the team together will help the players master a well-structured system of play, with discipline and composure remaining central to their development.

His approach places equal emphasis on competitive results and preparing young players for senior football, with the ultimate goal of creating a reliable pathway from the Under-19 side to the first team.