The Zimbabwean football community is in mourning as former national player and head coach, Rahman Gumbo, has passed away.
Gumbo was a revered figure in Zimbabwean football, with a coaching career spanning over two decades and numerous successes with various clubs both domestically and regionally.
Gumbo, a prominent member of the renowned Warriors squad, affectionately known as the Dream Team, suffered a collapse at his residence in Palapye, Botswana on Thursday. Tragically, he was unable to recover and passed away at a hospital in Francistown on Friday.
Prior to his untimely demise, Gumbo served as the head coach of Morupule Wanderers, a team competing in the Botswana Premier League. However, he had recently departed from this position.
In Zimbabwe, he had worked with notable clubs such as Highlanders, CAPS United, FC Platinum, and Chicken Inn, leaving a lasting impact in the domestic Castle Lager Premiership. Gumbo also extended his coaching expertise abroad, having stints with clubs in South Africa and Malawi.
In recent years, Botswana became Gumbo’s second home as he took charge of several prominent teams in the Botswana Premier League, including Township Rollers, Gaborone United, and Mochudi Centre Chiefs. Notably, he led Township Rollers to the Botswana league title in 2010, adding to his remarkable achievement of winning league titles in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Malawi.
Gumbo’s contributions extended to the national stage as well, where he had the honor of coaching the Zimbabwean senior national team, the Warriors. He initially held the role in the early 2000s but was later dismissed following a 3-0 defeat against Nigeria. Gumbo had further coaching stints with the Warriors in 2012 and June 2019.
The passing of Rahman Gumbo has left a void in Zimbabwean football, with tributes pouring in from players, coaches, and fans alike. His legacy as a talented player and accomplished coach will forever be remembered in the hearts of Zimbabwean football enthusiasts.
