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A GOLDEN DUO . . . The late Mercedes ”Rambo” Sibanda and Willard Mashikila-Khumalo pose with the CECAFA Under-20 trophy which Zimbabwe won in the ‘80s when they were part of a generation of Young Warriors who represented the country with distinction. — (Picture by Futbol News)

Sports Reporter
THE football fraternity in Harare have organised a service at Raylton Sports Club tomorrow morning to mourn iconic Zimbabwean footballer, Willard Mashinkila-Khumalo, who died in Bulawayo on Sunday morning.

The service, organised by former Zimbabwe international forward, Charlie Jones, is set to start at 10am tomorrow.

“I have booked Raylton for the service and we have spoken to the Highlanders’ sector in Harare and they will give us one guy who will speak at the service,” said Jones.

“We have invited a number of football legends, supporters from across the entire football fraternity, former and current football officials, so that we all come together and give our hero a farewell that he deserves.

“Obviously, we would have wanted to be in Bulawayo for the burial on Thursday (tomorrow) but that is not possible but that doesn’t mean we cannot meet to remember a great football player who gave it his all for our football.

“Willard was more than just a Highlanders’ legend, he was a Zimbabwe football legend, and he contributed a lot to the growth of our football and that is why we are meeting at Raylton on Thursday to say farewell to a legend of our times.”

Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association boss, Eddie “Mboma” Nyatanga, said Zimbabwe football will never be the same again without Mashinkila-Khumalo’s infectious smile and his great contribution for its development both on and off the pitch.

“We have been blessed, over the years, with a number of players who were very talented, and very popular, across the entire football divide, and I don’t think there is anyone who can match Willard Mashinkila-Khumalo when it comes to that package,” said Nyatanga.

“He was that rare footballer who belonged to all the fans because he was a very good man, never part of the controversy, who represented his club and country with distinction and there will never be anyone like Willard in our football.

“He was a personal friend and it’s sad that we have to say goodbye to him, when he was very, very young, and when he still had a lot that he could offer to his old club, Highlanders, and his country.”

Former Zimbabwe Saints’ star, Alban Mafemba, said Mashinkila-Khumalo will forever be in the hearts of true football fans.

“It is with great sorrow that we read of the passing away of yet another illustrious football legend of Zimbabwe. Willard Khumalo was not only a good footballer but a wonderful person,” said Mafemba.

“He had a charismatic personality and this could explain why he became a great coach after his playing days. I wish ZIFA could give more recognition to sports legends and support in real life.

“Willard was a great player and had a characteristic ‘galloping brand’ which endeared him to football fans, whether you liked Bosso or not.

“As a Zimbabwe Saints player, l still saw Willard as my midfield hero, on his day Willard was unstoppable. Memories now linger in our minds.”

PSL chief executive, Kennedy Ndebele said Mashinkila-Khumalo will always be a Zimbabwe football hero.

“The Premier Soccer League board of governors, clubs, players and staff have learnt with sadness the passing away of legend Willard Mashinkila-Khumalo.

“The PSL would like to express its most sincere sympathies to the Mashinkila-Khumalo family during this difficult time.

“Willard was highly valuable, lovable and charismatic football player, coach and friend.

“He was a wonderful man who understood the meaning of the word ‘team’ and was always focused on the good of football than personal benefit. ‘Nduna’, as Willard was affectionately known, contributed immensely to the development of football in Zimbabwe. His top level displays and leadership will forever be remembered.

“May his dear soul rest in peace,” said Ndebele. Former Mwana Africa team manager, Milton Nyamadzawo said Mashinkila-Khumalo was an all-time hero of Zimbabwe football.

“I worked with Willard and his untimely death is a stabbing pain to my heart. Widzo you are not dead but just away, we will meet one day.

“If death could be volunteered then the world should have chosen someone else other than Willard. A great loss to Zimbabwe,” said Nyamadzawo.