Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda, Zimpapers Sports Hub
VETERAN coach Joey “Mafero” Antipas might have taken a sabbatical from football, but the two-time championship winner is not completely switched off from the game.
Antipas left Chicken Inn at the end of last season, exactly 10 years after guiding the Gamecocks to their first and only League title, and has been enjoying “some quality time” with his family, especially his three-year old grandson.
The 66-year-old gaffer is also enjoying the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League race and believes defending champions Scottland will be difficult to dethrone.
Mabviravira sit on top of the log with 43 points after Match Day 20.
They enjoy a five-point advantage over second placed Hardrock, who are still waiting for the verdict on their abandoned match against Dynamos in May.
“The Castle Lager Premier Soccer League race is fascinating, though I tip Scottland to lift the championship once again.
“It will be difficult for other contenders like Hardrock and CAPS United to win it,” Antipas told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
Scottland have won their last seven matches without conceding.
Their latest win was a 5-0 thumping of Manica Diamonds at Rufaro last Friday.
“Scottland have the capacity and will definitely go into the market to acquire new players in the window to boost their chances in the Champions League, which will guarantee them success in the local league,” added Antipas.
The Zimbabwean football champions have acquired the services of former Dynamos right back Emmanuel Jalai, who has joined Mabviravira on a six-month loan from Betway Premiership side Durban City.
Malawian defender Nickson Nyasulu has also joined Scottland from FC Platinum.
“Scottland are a very powerful side, too strong,” added Antipas.
The former national team coach is a staunch supporter of five-time World Cup winners Brazil, but he feels the Samba Boys might not win the 2026 edition.
Brazil squeezed into the last 16 after a 2-1 victory against Japan on Monday.
Antipas is tipping Kylian Mbappe to lead France to the podium.
“I support my sentimental favorites Brazil, though I believe France have the firepower to win the 2026 edition,” said Antipas.
On his sabbatical, the former Motor Action coach said: “I’m just taking it easy, resting and living because as a coach it’s important to have a sabbatical from the game!”
“I have been in it for years now so I need to have quality time with family and friends with no pressure from the game.
“I have not had a break from football for many years so I’m happy to have it.”
Antipas is one of the most respected coaches on the local scene.
He won his first top flight championship with Motor Action in 2010.
Five years later, Antipas guided Chicken Inn to a historic Premier Soccer League title.
That Gamecocks side had an array of star players including Soccer Star of the Year Danny “Deco” Phiri, Divine Lunga, Moses Jackson, Lawrence Mhlanga, Michelle Katsvairo, Edmore Chirambadare, Clement Matawu, and goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze.
Antipas had a brief stint in South Africa after that historic achievement, before returning to the Bulawayo side for a second spell which ended last year.
“I’m at home and have the opportunity to do many things that I have not done all these years.
“I also have my three-year old grandson who’s keeping me on my toes and I still follow the game from a distance.
