Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni
Sports Reporter
CAPS United are hosting FC Platinum this afternoon minus one big problem after it was confirmed that the visitors’ danger man, Hagiazo Magaya, will not be part of this fixture due to suspension.
It is a must-win, according to reports that have been suggesting that coach Lloyd Chitembwe was given a two-game ultimatum prior to this game. They are going into this match on the back of a 1-0 win that they registered last weekend at the cost of Yadah.
That was also their second win in eight attempts.
But, the brutal reality is Chitembwe would want to ignore is that their victories have come against the Miracle Boys and Triangle, who are rooted at the bottom of the pile, respectively.
Chitembwe’s future is still clouded with a huge shadow of uncertainty, with some sources confirming that he is making way for Ian Bakala, regardless of the outcome.
Magaya has been FC Platinum’s dangerous man, as his side appears to be built around him.
He received some rave reviews the last time the four-time champions came to the capital, as he was the star of the show when they forced a 1-1 draw against Scottland.
Scottland coach Tonderai Ndiraya also admitted that it is almost impossible for any team to dominate Norman Mapeza’s midfield trio of Magaya, Brian Banda, and Devine Mhindirira.
But Magaya’s absence is likely going to give Juan Mutudza, Tanaka Shandirwa, and Kundai Benyu the freedom of the city.
Magaya single-handedly pocketed Khama Billiat, Walter Musona, and Mthokozisi Msebe.
Mutudza will be out to prove Mapeza wrong for letting him go, and his cause has been made better by Magaya’s absence.
Mapeza is likely going to deploy Polyester Shoko to fill in Magaya’s void.
Shoko might not be as industrious as Magaya, but he is also capable of declaring war.
FC Platinum have registered seven draws and one win this season.
CAPS United boss Farai Jere has refused to make his position known regarding the future of Chitembwe.
“I will not comment on those issues for now because this could distract the team in their preparations for the game.
“Let’s see what happens next. We need to be winning our games,” said Jere.
