Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
HE was once a nobody, a quiet lower league coach at ZRP FC.
But six years after that big break at Yadah, Genesis “Kaka” Mangombe has turned into one of the hottest names in local football.
Back in 2019, Yadah took a wild gamble hiring the then 36 year old rookie.
Few expected him to last. Today, the same man is dragging Triangle United out of the relegation pit, and into a cup final.
“It hasn’t been an easy road,” Mangombe said. “It was bumpy, sometimes full of regrets and risks, but I’m happy people now see me as one of the good coaches in the country.”
Since taking over from Luke Masomere in April, when Triangle had just one point from six games, Mangombe has completely changed the mood in the Lowveld.
He’s guided the Sugar Boys to 34 points from 31 matches and a place in the Chibuku Super Cup final.
“The boys are trying to play the way we want,” he said. “We’ve collected vital points and improved our position.”
A win against MWOS this weekend could seal their survival and book another crack at silverware.
“We win against MWOS, we’re safe,” Mangombe said. “We just need to stay focused and work hard.”
The man once doubted at Yadah is now thriving on pressure.
“They trusted me when I was young,” he recalled. “Prophet Walter Magaya gave me a free role, and it worked for me.”
He’s also picked up lessons from his time at Dynamos, Scottland, and Tabora United in Tanzania plus a brief Warriors stint as Baltemar Brito’s assistant.
Now 42, Kaka has learned to take the punches. “You become brave,” he said.
“You learn to face any challenge. The circumstances I’ve been through have made me stronger.”
And with survival and a trophy both within reach, Mangombe’s Sugar Boys look ready to finish their great escape.
Mathew Masinge