Football often crafts the most unexpected scripts, and Clement Nyondo’s journey this season is one such convincing tale.
Transitioning from Dedza Dynamos to Mighty Mukuru Wanderers, Nyondo has experienced a rapid of highs, lows, and an inspiring comeback.
After winning last season’s Super League Golden Boot with 16 goals, his 2024 league campaign raised questions about his form, with just six goals to his name.
However, the Castel Challenge Cup has seen the striker rediscover his brilliance, leading the tournament’s scoring charts with 12 goals and driving Wanderers to the semifinals.
GOLDEN BOOT GLORY AT DEDZA DYNAMOS
Nyondo’s performances in the 2023 season for Dedza Dynamos were nothing short of phenomenal. A clinical finisher with an eye for the spectacular, he succeeded alongside his former teammates Charles Chipala and Promise Kamwendo, forming a deadly attacking trio.
His deeds not only earned him the Golden Boot but also attracted the attention of top clubs. It was no surprise when Wanderers moved quickly to secure his signature.
The expectation was that he would replicate his stellar form, but his transition to a new team came with challenges.
A ROCKY LEAGUE CAMPAIGN
Adjusting to Wanderers’ system proved more difficult than anticipated. Competing at a club with high expectations, Nyondo faced immense pressure to deliver.
Opposing teams’ tight marking, tactical shifts and his own struggle to adapt left him with a modest tally of six goals in the league, under the watchful eyes of coaches Nsazurwimo Ramadan, Meke Mwase, and Bob Mpinganjira.
Critics questioned whether the 25-year-old had already peaked, but Nyondo never hesitated.
“The league was tough, but I never lost faith in my ability,” he said. “Sometimes you face challenges, but what matters is how you respond.”
THE CASTEL CHALLENGE CUP REVIVAL
Nyondo’s response came in spectacular fashion during the Castel Challenge Cup. Displaying the form that made him last season’s Golden Boot winner, he has scored in every round of the competition so far:
· Round of 64: Four goals in a 16-0 rout of Nsuwadzi FC.
· Round of 32: Another four-goal master class in a 10-1 victory over Chipoka United at Kamuzu Stadium.
· Round of 16: A crucial goal in a 4-1 extra-time triumph after a tense 1-1 regulation finish.
· Quarterfinals: A clinical hat-trick to seal a 5-0 win against Bangwe All Stars.
With 12 goals in the tournament, Nyondo leads the scoring charts. His impressive form has been a testament to his resilience and ability to deliver under pressure.
THE GOLDEN BOOT RACE HEATS UP
Despite his dominance, the once Karonga United forward faces competition from FCB Nyasa Big Bullets midfielder Chawanangwa Gumbo, who has eight goals in the competition.
Gumbo’s standout performance came in the round of 64, where he scored all eight goals in a 22-1 victory against Kumanda All Stars.
Nyondo’s rebirth is even more remarkable when compared to the other year, where he scored just three goals in the same tournament while at Dedza Dynamos.
In 2023, five players shared the Ibongetse Castel Challenge Cup Golden Boot award, each scoring five goals.
The players were Peter Kasonga and Mphatso Philemon from Mafco, Emmanuel Saviel from Bangwe All Stars, Chiukepo Msowoya from Mighty Wanderers, and Patrick Macheso from Silver Strikers.
However, all of them are no longer in contention: Kasonga, Philemon, and Macheso are out as their teams were eliminated, Msowoya has retired, and Saviel now plays for Mufulira Wanderers in Zambia.
THE WANDERERS FACTOR
Wanderers have been instrumental to Nyondo’s revival. Under interim coach Bob Mpinganjira, the team has adjusted its tactics to play to his strengths—his movement in the box, sharp finishing, and composure in high-pressure moments.
“My teammates have been incredible,” Nyondo said. “They’ve supported me through the tough times and provided the assists I needed in the cup. This isn’t just my success—it’s ours.”
AIMING FOR GLORY
With the semifinals looming, Nyondo’s focus remains on bringing the Castel Challenge Cup trophy to Wanderers.
For fans, his resurrection has been a beacon of hope in an otherwise challenging season.
“This tournament has been special for me,” Nyondo said. “Winning it would not only be a personal redemption but also a way to thank the fans and the club for believing in me.”
LEGACY IN THE MAKING
Clement Nyondo’s journey this season is a powerful reminder of football’s unpredictability.
From league struggles that tested his resolve to a cup campaign that has showcased his class, Nyondo has proven that setbacks are temporary, but talent and determination endure.
As the semifinals approach, he stands as a symbol of resilience—not just for himself but for every player striving to rise again after a fall. For Mighty Mukuru Wanderers, he could yet become the hero who delivers a historic triumph.
By Praise Majawa
