Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIFA have described former Zimbabwe international and ex-Dynamos skipper and defender Angirayi Chapo as a beacon of inspiration for young footballers through his hard work and determination during his playing career.
Chapo died at his Mufakose home in Harare on Tuesday morning.
And ZIFA have joined the football fraternity in mourning the passing of a man who was known for his steely defensive work in both the Dynamos and national team colours.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) would like to extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing on of former Dynamos captain and ex-Warriors right back Angirayi Chapo in Harare on September 30, 2025,’’ ZIFA said. “ZIFA learnt of the death of Chapo with sadness and sorrow.
“Angirayi was a member of a fine generation of Dynamos players whose leadership qualities saw him being elevated to the captaincy of the club following the retirement of Misheck Chidzambwa (late).
“He was also part of a fine generation of Warriors who came agonisingly close to securing qualification for the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations.”
ZIFA noted some of the top footballers with whom Chapo rubbed shoulders during his playing career.
“That generation of Warriors under the captaincy of Moses Chunga included Peter Fanwell, the late John Sibanda, Alexander Maseko, Ephraim Chawanda, Paul Gundani (late), Henry McKop, Willard Mashinkila-Khumalo (late), Memory Mucherahowa, the Ndlovu brothers Peter and the late Adam among others.
“At Dynamos he was in the same team with the likes of Elvis Chiweshe, Clayton Munemo, Taurai Mangwiro, Garikai Zuze, Henry Chari, and the late quartet of Charles Chirwa, Francis Shonhayi, Biggie Zuze and Gift Mpariwa.
“Angirayi was from a class of steely defenders which saw him being nicknamed Durawall.
“Through his exploits for both club and country, Chapo left an enduring legacy for many a football enthusiasts.
“While we join the Chapo family and indeed the football fraternity in mourning the passing on of Angirayi, we also celebrate his contribution to the national game.
“Durawall was more than just a player. As captain of Dynamos Football Club, he embodied resilience, cour-age, and leadership, inspiring those around him on and off the field.
“He was admired not only for his footballing excellence, but also for his humility, kindness, and deep connection to his community in Mufakose.
“In this moment of sorrow, ZIFA extends heartfelt condolences to the Chapo family and to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he has played his final match, the legacy he leaves behind, that of commitment, leadership and an unbreakable spirit, will forever remain part of Zimbabwe’s football history.
“Angirayi “Durawall” Chapo will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on as a lasting source of inspiration,’’ ZIFA said.C
