This is the biography of Sunday Chidzambwa, a prominent figure in Zimbabwean football. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership, Chidzambwa has made significant contributions both as a player and a coach.
Early Life and Background
Sunday Marimo Chidzambwa was born on 4 May 1952 in Enkeldoorn, Southern Rhodesia (now Chivhu, Zimbabwe)1. He grew up in a football-loving family. His younger brother, the late Misheck Chidzambwa, also became a notable footballer and coach.
Sunday Chidzambwa Playing Career
Dynamos FC
Chidzambwa began his football career as a defender for Dynamos FC. He played for the club during the 1970s and 1980s. During his time with Dynamos, he won five league championships.
International Career
Chidzambwa also represented Zimbabwe at the international level. He played in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match in 1980. His playing career was cut short due to a severe leg injury.
Sunday Chidzambwa Transition to Coaching
Sunday Chidzambwa Biography [Image: Goal]
After retiring as a player, Chidzambwa transitioned to coaching. He started with Dynamos FC, where he had significant success. He led the team to several league titles and a CAF Champions League final in 1998.
Zimbabwe National Team
Chidzambwa’s coaching career extended to the national level. He first managed the Zimbabwe national team in 2004, leading them to their maiden Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Tunisia. He returned to manage the national team in 2007 and again from 2008 to 2010.
Sunday Chidzambwa Coaching in South Africa
Chidzambwa also had stints in South Africa. He managed Umtata Bush Bucks, Free State Stars, and Black Leopards. His time in South Africa was marked by both successes and challenges.
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Achievements and Records
Sunday Chidzambwa Biography [Image: Nehanda Radio]
Chidzambwa is regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s most successful coaches. He is the only coach to have led a Zimbabwean club to the CAF Champions League final. He also won multiple league titles with Dynamos FC.
Chidzambwa’s international coaching career includes leading Zimbabwe to their first AFCON finals. He also won four COSAFA Cup titles with the national team.
Sunday Chidzambwa Controversies
In 2012, Chidzambwa faced allegations of match-fixing. FIFA and the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) banned him for ten years. This controversy marred his otherwise illustrious career.
Despite the ban, Chidzambwa returned to coaching in 2017. He was appointed as one of three national team coaches for Zimbabwe. He resigned from this role in 2019.
Personal Life
Sunday Chidzambwa is married to Constance Jiro. The couple tied the knot in 1983, just a week after Chidzambwa suffered a career-ending leg injury. Despite the injury, he walked down the aisle on crutches.
References
- Heartbeat of Zim Football – The Sunday Mail
- Sunday “Mhofu” Chidzambwa – The Rural Boy Who Defied All Odds – Zim Legends
- Sunday Chidzambwa – Manager profile – Transfermarkt
