16-year-old Chakuchichi impresses in his first start for Scottland; Ndiraya tips him as next Zimbabwe Warriors gem

HARARE – Tadiwa Chakuchichi, a 16-year-old talented winger, delivered an impressive performance in his first start for Scottland FC, as they recorded a narrow 1-0 victory over Kwekwe United at Rufaro Stadium.

The former Zimbabwe CAF Schools U-15 captain was handed his first senior start by coach Tonderai Ndiraya and he didn’t disappoint.

Chakuchichi came close to registering his name on the scoresheet but one of his efforts hit the crossbar.

The former St John’s College student had several opportunities to score but was denied by near misses which Ndiraya believes are due to inexperience coupled with a bit of unluckiness.

Coach Ndiraya believes that with a bit more luck and experience, the rising star could have easily scored a hat-trick.

“I was impressed by young Tadiwa Chakuchichi. With a bit of luck and experience, the 16-year-old could have scored a hat-trick,” Ndiraya said.

The former Dynamos coach added that more game time will help the youngster become more clinical in front of goal.

“If he gets more minutes on the pitch, he’ll start converting those chances. I also hope he maintains this form, it was a very promising start,” he added.

Ndiraya, who led Simba Bhora to the league title last season, went on to suggest that Chakuchichi could be destined for the senior national team.

“Probably, we (as a nation), we could have just discovered a gem for the Warriors’ senior team,” he said.

Chakuchichi joined Scottland at the start of the season on a one-year deal and has already delivered brilliant performances in the two matches he has played so far.

Probably if he continues on this trajectory, he is likely set to attract interest from foreign clubs.