Zimbabwe (20) v (0) Belgium

By Tim Beissmann

THE TWO teams were looking for their first wins of the Homeless World Cup, and it was the Zimbabweans who slammed home a Melbourne record 20-0 win over the Belgians.

From the outset, the Zimbabweans showed their intent to share the ball and work as a team with crossing play from wing to wing.

Faria Murwira started the onslaught which was quickly followed by another four goals within the opening two minutes of play.

The pace of Simbarashe Saidi for Zimbabwe stunned the crowd and the Belgians, who had few answers to the silky skills of their opponents.

Under siege goalie Marc Van Humbeek tried desperately to keep his side in the contest, with two stellar saves to deny the Zimbabweans, and was among the better players for the Belgians.

With the half time score standing at 7-0, the Belgians had tightened up on their opponents and looked to control the pace of the game to play it on their terms.

But the Zimbabweans had all the answers, and began sharing the goals around and seemingly toying with their opponents through the midfield.

Saidi slotted four goals for the half, the best an individual effort sprinting and spinning down the length of the pitch to drop it in the back of the net.

Belgian striker Dana looked increasingly dangerous in the forward line, but despite numerous attempts, could not squeeze it through the safe hands of Herbert Matika, who kept everything out that came his way.

A deliberate hand-ball by Bouirdine showed the frustration of the Belgians who came so close but could not convert.

Murwira was the standout performer in the contest, with an incredible 10-goal haul.

Photos: Photoworx