Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi-Zimpapers Sports Hub
CAPS United legend Charles “Raw Meat” Sibanda, along with other former players, have called on the current squad to bring back the glory days in the upcoming 2025 season.
Sibanda, who was part of the trailblazing squad that clinched the club’s first championship in the then Super League in 1979, expressed his hopes for the team.
“I happen to be among the first players to play for CAPS United when the team was promoted,” he reminisced.
“Unfortunately, most of my teammates are no more. But we thank God that the surviving players still follow the team whole-heartedly and we wish CAPS United the best in 2025.”
Makepekepe have endured a title drought for the past eight seasons. Nevertheless, there is a renewed sense of optimism in the club structures and former players alike.
Despite tough competition expected from well-resourced clubs like Scottland and Simba Bhora, who were the most active during the pre-season, and old enemies Dynamos and Highlanders, the Green Machine are determined to make a mark this season.
Former star forward Mike Temwanjira emphasised the importance of scoring goals to secure victories.
“I want to charge these boys to score goals. They should hustle for every ball against the defenders inside the box and try to get goals. I will be more than happy, especially if they beat Dynamos this year.”
Former striker Simon Dambaza shared his insights with the team’s midfielders and forwards, urging them to work hard and aim for a successful season.
CAPS United will kick off the PSL campaign tomorrow with an away match against GreenFuel in Chisumbanje. They will take the 400km road journey today.
Ex-defender David Sengu, who is now part of the technical team, encouraged the players to push themselves harder this season.
“I know we are dark horses; we are not being talked about much. People are talking about the likes of Scottland and Simba Bhora, but we are very much in the mix. Let’s achieve what we want to achieve in 2025,” said Sengu.
CAPS United have unveiled a 31-man squad, featuring new talents such as Kundai Benyu and Tanaka Shandirwa, and expatriates – Congolese midfielder Love Bissila Mabiala and Ghanaian goalkeeper Stephen Odai Kwaku.
They now also have on their books, ex-Highlanders midfielder Brighton Manhire, former Dynamos striker Nyasha Chintuli, midfielder Juan Mutudza, defender Kelvin Mangiza and highly rated ex-ZPC Hwange goalkeeper Harmony Nare.
With sponsors like Pure Gold, Viego, Sports Evolution 360, and Helcraw Electrical, CAPS United feel they are ready to compete this season.
CAPS United president Farai Jere praised the new kit designs by their new technical partner Viego, highlighting the club’s identity and ambition.
The Zimbabwean sports attire manufacturer also pledged to come up with new designs by mid-season.
“This kit symbolises more than just a uniform. It embodies our identities, our pride, and our ambition as a CAPS United family. The design inflates the rich history of CAPS United while also embracing the modern spirit of football.
“It is a reminder that we are not only a club, but a community, bound together by our love for the game and our unwavering support for one another. It carries our hopes, our dreams, and our aspiration for the season ahead, the 2025 season,” said Jere.
Coach Lloyd Chitembwe emphasised the responsibility the team has to meet expectations and perform well both on and off the field.
Club chief executive officer Morton Dodzo urged supporters to rally behind the team positively and avoid conduct that could harm the team.
Makepekepe were the most fined club last season with most of the penalties resulting from unruly fan behaviour.
“CAPS United supporters, please let’s support the team and be involved positively. Let’s contribute to the success and growth of our beloved team.
“Let’s rally behind the team and avoid destroying and costing our own club. This is your team. Let us all work towards the desired growth and success.
“Last year, we suffered heavily due to fines which were charged by PSL. Most of the fines were due to missile-throwing, pitch invasions, etc,” said Dodzo.
