Yadah FC Executive Banned and Fined After Assault on Goalkeeper

Yadah FC executive Spencer Muvadi has been banned for 12 months and fined US$4,000 after assaulting goalkeeper Goodknows Gurure (image source)

Yadah FC has been plunged into controversy after senior club executive Spencer Muvadi was found guilty by the Premier Soccer League (PSL) disciplinary committee of assaulting the club’s goalkeeper, Goodknows Gurure, following a league match against Ngezi Platinum Stars at Heart Stadium on 22 August.

The PSL handed Muvadi a US$4,000 fine, ordered him to pay the costs of the hearing, and imposed a 12-month ban from all football-related activities — including attending PSL matches and conducting any official club business during the suspension.

The incident occurred moments after the final whistle, in full view of players, staff and spectators. Gurure, a long-time stalwart for the Miracle Boys, was reportedly visibly shaken by the assault, prompting immediate complaints from teammates and a referral to the Footballers Union of Zimbabwe (FUZ). Video and eyewitness accounts circulated widely across social media, intensifying calls for swift disciplinary action.

PSL communications officer Kudzai Bare confirmed the outcome, saying the committee had applied a zero-tolerance approach to violence.

“Mr Muvadi was found guilty of breaching the PSL Rules and Regulations and the Committee has imposed a fine of US$4,000 together with costs of the hearing,” Bare said, stressing that the ruling aimed to protect player welfare and uphold league standards of conduct.

Yadah FC itself was fined US$5,000 for failing to control an official, with the league setting a strict payment deadline.

The sanctions have immediate governance implications for the club, which must now demonstrate internal reforms, strengthen safeguarding systems, and report back to the PSL on preventative measures. Sports governance experts have urged that the penalties be coupled with mandatory training for executives, clear reporting mechanisms for player abuse, and a transparent disciplinary framework to rebuild trust.

Reactions among fans and analysts were divided. While many commended the PSL’s decisive response, others expressed disappointment that such behaviour occurred within a club that brands itself as a faith-based institution rooted in discipline and spirituality.

The Footballers Union of Zimbabwe has called on Yadah FC to provide counselling and support for Gurure and to prioritise his safety on and off the pitch. The PSL disciplinary committee warned that any violation of Muvadi’s suspension or further misconduct by Yadah officials could result in harsher sanctions, including longer bans, heavier fines, or referral to ZIFA for licensing review.

“The ruling aims to protect player welfare and uphold league standards of conduct.” — PSL communications officer Kudzai Bare