Zimbabwean football player Tino Kadewere is under fire after he verbally assaulted and threatened journalist Yvonne Mangunda during a media training session in Johannesburg on Monday.
The incident occurred at Orlando Stadium, where the Warriors were preparing for their World Cup qualifier against Rwanda.
Kadewere was upset about a social media post in which Mangunda had criticized his performance with the national team.
Upon seeing her at the training session, the 29-year-old forward, who plays for Aris Saloniki in Greece, angrily gestured and pointed at the journalist from a distance.
Kadewere later approached Mangunda, encouraged by some teammates including Knowledge Musona.
He poked her chest three times, verbally insulted her, and threatened to beat her if she didn’t leave the stadium.
A ZIFA official and the team manager had to intervene to restrain him as he repeatedly shouted, “Tikapedza training uripano ndoda kukumamisa,” which translates to, “If you are here after we finish training, I will beat you up.”
The incident cast a shadow over the Warriors’ preparations as they seek their first win in eight matches.
Following the altercation, veteran administrator Sharif Mussa, ZIFA official Kudzai Chitima, and Warriors team manager Clement Matawu mediated a discussion, and Kadewere apologised to the journalist.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) released a statement condemning the abuse and affirming its commitment to ensuring journalists can work without intimidation. ZIFA also announced that the matter is being handled through appropriate disciplinary processes.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association notes with deep regret the incident that occurred… involving national team player Tinotenda Kadewere and journalist Yvonne Mangunda,” the statement read. “ZIFA strongly condemns any form of abuse towards the media. Journalists are a vital part of the game, and we are committed to ensuring they carry out their duties without fear or intimidation.”
“The player has apologized to Ms. Mangunda, and an amicable understanding between the two parties has been reached,” the statement continued. “The matter is being addressed through the appropriate disciplinary processes by both the team management and the Association.”
Kadewere has a poor record with the national team, having scored just three goals in 19 matches.
His continued inclusion in the squad has been a source of frustration for many football fans.
