Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
NGEZI Platinum Stars coach Takesure “Deco” Chiragwi will face sanctions from PSL despite his apology over slapping player McDonald Makuwe at Rufaro on Saturday.
The Ngezi Platinum coach said emotions got the better of him in the 1-1 draw with Dynamos.
Chiragwi was first involved in a confrontation with match officials and as the situation escalated, Makuwe intervened in an attempt to de-escalate the matter.
In a shocking act of aggression, Chiragwi responded by slapping Makuwe.
Yesterday Chiragwi then made a public apology and also stepped down as Warriors assistant coach.
On the other hand, the Premier Soccer League condemned the coach’s behaviour, confirming they have launched a formal investigation.
“The safety, security and safeguarding of players, officials and all stakeholders remain our top priority,” said PSL in a statement.
Chiragwi said, “First and foremost, I extend my deepest apologies to McDonald Makuwe, the player involved.
“I am deeply sorry for my behaviour towards you. Regardless of the circumstances or emotions of the moment, there is no justification for my actions, and I take full responsibility for the hurt and embarrassment they may have caused you.
“I have since had the opportunity to speak with you directly and apologise in person, and I sincerely thank you for your understanding and graciousness in accepting that apology.
“I also wish to apologise to Ngezi Platinum Stars Football Club, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and its partners, as well as the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), where I have had the privilege of serving as assistant coach of the national team, the Warriors.
“My conduct fell far short of the standards expected of me, and I acknowledge the damage it has caused to the reputation of the game, my club and our national institutions.
“To the fans, stakeholders and the broader football community, I am truly sorry for letting you down. Football is a sport that should inspire discipline, respect, and unity, and my actions contradicted those very values.
“In the spirit of transparency and respect for due process, I have stepped aside from my national team duties for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers to allow all disciplinary procedures to take place without prejudice.
“I will cooperate fully with the investigations by the PSL and any other relevant authorities and accept whatever outcome or sanction is deemed appropriate.”
The timing of the incident is particularly damning, coming just weeks after the PSL fined Yadah and their executive member, Spencer Muvadi, for a similar assault on a player. Muvadi was also suspended.
