Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
CAPS United’s pursuit for a league title after a decade has gathered momentum this season, but there are growing concerns that goalkeeper could shatter that dream.
Takesure Chiragwi’s charges remain firmly in the title picture and currently sit third with 31 points, level with Hardrock and Scottland but separated by goal difference.
However, what had appeared to be one of the league’s more reliable defensive units has recently shown signs of vulnerability, with Wallace Magalane coming under increasing scrutiny following a series of costly errors.
The goalkeeper endured another difficult afternoon during CAPS United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over ZPC Kariba at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday, where an error contributed to one of the visitors’ goals and reignited debate over his place in the starting line-up.
Magalane has conceded four goals in his last two matches, a statistic that has raised concern among supporters as CAPS United seek to maintain pace with fellow title contenders.
The goalkeeper has also been involved in a number of costly mistakes in recent weeks, including the defeat to Simba Bhora, leaving coach Chiragwi with a difficult decision to make ahead of the club’s next fixture against Chicken Inn.
Sunday’s encounter saw frustration get the better of some sections of the CAPS United support at the City End, with some jeering the goalkeeper during the match after another nervy performance.
The atmosphere softened after the final whistle as CAPS United secured all three points, with supporters applauding the team following a spirited victory.
Yet the spotlight now firmly falls on Chiragwi, who must decide whether to continue backing his first-choice goalkeeper or make a change as the championship race intensifies.
Speaking after the match, Chiragwi acknowledged the mistake but defended his player citing the importance of collective responsibility.
“We made a very big blunder,” said Chiragwi.
“But at the end of the day, there is teamwork and spirit. All the players, I give them credit. They really want to win. When they make silly mistakes, you have to understand them and keep motivating them.
That is how we end up winning,” he said.
While the goalkeeping issue remains a talking point, Chiragwi will be without one of his most influential attacking players, Ishmael Wadi, who got a second yellow.
Wadi was instrumental in CAPS United’s victory, scoring twice and providing an assist before receiving the marching orders in the closing stages of the match.
The red card means the forward is set to miss the club’s next assignment, a setback for a side chasing consistency in the final stretch of the campaign.
Chiragwi expressed disappointment with the decision-making that led to Wadi’s dismissal, particularly given the player’s experience and importance to the team.
“He is a key player. But as a senior player, he should have managed composure and walk out,” Chiragwi said.
“He was already holding a yellow card. It wasn’t necessary. What happened, you cannot change that.
“It is not good for him or the club. Now we need to get him back so we can move forward.”
Despite the sending-off, Chiragwi revealed that Wadi immediately accepted responsibility for his actions after the match.
“For me, the Man of the Match is not important,” he said.
“He presented himself to say, ‘I made a mistake.’ At the end of the day, the team comes first. We are happy.”
The victory ensured CAPS United remained firmly in the title conversation, but it also highlighted challenges that could prove decisive in the months ahead.
