FC Lupopo 0-1 Dynamos

CUTHBERT Malajila was a doubt for this match after his old club Chapungu banned him from flying to the Democratic Republic of Congo in a row over his transfer fee.

If Dynamos were not convinced about his worth previously, then they found out his true value after his priceless goal set them on course for the African Champions League second round.

Malajila missed Dynamos’ flight to Kinshasa on Thursday after Air Force club Chapungu called in Dynamos’ outstanding debt from the player’s move two seasons ago.

Dynamos supporter and Information Minister Webster Shamu stepped in, convincing the Air Force to release Malajila “in the national ineterst”, and the player flew out on Friday to join up with his teammates.

The former Highlanders and Chapungu marksman scored against the run of play with a low second half shot that beat former Dynamos goalkeeper Ephraim Mazarura.

Mazarura is just one of four ex-Dynamos players at the Congolese club, along with striker Phillip Marufu, midfielder Mtshumayeli Moyo and Carrington Gomba, who played in the match.

The crucial away goal means Dynamos will go through to the second round of the competition if they can avoid defeat in the reverse leg in a fortnight.

Dynamos’ win completed a remarkable weekend for Zimbabwe’s Champions League representatives after champions Gunners stunned Egyptian champions Al Ahly 1-0 at Rufaro.

DYNAMOS LINE-UP

W. Manyatera, K. Banda, D. Kutyauripo, T. Maingire, A. Rambanepasi, C. Malajila, T. Kamusoko (D.Maringwa 80 min), M. Makopa, W. Sithole (B.Marere 46 min), F. Vimisai

(All results are first leg. Return fixtures are played in a fortnight)