Victory  celebration  by a local soccer team ended in tragedy as one player died while several others were injured after a footbridge over Pungwe River in Honde Valley collapsed.

The tragedy occurred as the players were singing and dancing while crossing the bridge on their way home.

The deceased was identified Francis Mugota of Mabota village, Chief Mutasa.

Report disclosed that the bridge was constructed decades ago, according to locals, used by liberation war fighters to cross Pungwe River during the independence struggle.

The Deputy Manicaland province police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Luxon Chananda said, the tragic incident occurred Sunday evening.

He said the bridge gave-in and collapsed under pressure as players from Muparutsa Academy Football crossed after a soccer match victory.

He drowned as the celebrating players fell into the river after the bridged gave in.

"As police, we urge members of the public to exercise extreme caution when crossing small footbridge especially during rainy season.

"Most footbridges may not be in good condition," said Chinanda.