Footballers’ Union Outraged After Yadah Keeper Assaulted By Club Official

The Footballers Union of Zimbabwe (FUZ) has condemned the assault of Yadah goalkeeper Godknows Gurure, who was allegedly attacked inside the changing room by a board member of his own club.

The incident occurred on Friday following Yadah’s 3-2 defeat to Ngezi Platinum Stars in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at The Heart Stadium.

Yadah had taken an early lead through Tanaka Chikumba just 29 seconds into the match, before Evans Rusike doubled the advantage shortly after the half-hour mark, finishing off a clever layoff from King Nadolo.

However, Ngezi Platinum Stars mounted a remarkable comeback. Talent Chamboko struck twice before substitute Delic Murimba netted a dramatic winner with virtually the last kick of the game.

After the final whistle, three men, including a Yadah executive member known as Mukanya, allegedly assaulted Gurure, leaving him with head injuries.

Medical personnel reportedly could not attend to him immediately in the absence of a police report.

Later that evening, Gurure, accompanied by his distraught mother, filed a police report and received medical treatment.

The assailants are said to have accused the goalkeeper of conceding what they described as “silly goals.”

In a statement, FUZ said that this cowardly act of violence is utterly unacceptable and brings shame
to the game. The statement reads:

“The changing room is meant to be a safe space for players, not a place where they are attacked by those who should be supporting them.

“No footballer should ever be subjected to physical or verbal abuse by club officials under any circumstances.”

FUZ has called on the Premier Soccer League (PSL), ZIFA, and all relevant authorities to immediately investigate the incident, hold the perpetrator fully accountable through strong disciplinary action, and implement measures to safeguard players’ safety and welfare across all clubs.

The union further stressed that footballers are workers who deserve respect, dignity, and protection. FUZ said:

“This assault is not only an attack on Godknows Gurure, but also an attack on player rights and the values of the sport.

“We demand swift and decisive action to ensure such disgraceful conduct has no place in Zimbabwean football.

“We stand firmly in solidarity with Godknows Gurure and with all players who deserve to work in a safe and professional environment.”