Caps United’s turbulent start to the season took another grim turn as they slumped to a 2-1 defeat against Ngezi Platinum Stars at Rufaro Stadium, leaving head coach Lloyd Chitembwe to face mounting pressure with his side languishing in 16th place on the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League table.
The Green Machine’s struggles were laid bare once again as they failed to grind out a result, despite a spirited second-half fightback. Ngezi Platinum struck first in the 40th minute through Obriel Chirinda, who capitalized on defensive frailties to put the visitors ahead. Caps United responded in the 69th minute via Eric Manokore, igniting hopes of a comeback, but those dreams were swiftly dashed just three minutes later when Ashwin Karengesha unleashed a sublime strike to restore Ngezi’s lead—a goal that ultimately sealed Caps’ fate.
Chitembwe’s Frustration: “Results Matter”
Speaking in his post-match press conference, a visibly frustrated Chitembwe acknowledged the growing discontent among fans but insisted that the criticism was part and parcel of football.
“To me, I find it logical. It’s a natural reaction,” he said. “There is this expectation about the team, and Caps is Caps. I have been here long enough to understand what this football club is all about. The results are what matters at the end of the day, and if the results are not coming, naturally people will react—this is very, very normal.”
The veteran gaffer, no stranger to pressure, admitted that the responsibility falls on both him and his players to turn things around.
“The team needs to find a way to manage this situation,” he continued. “I have told my players it’s their responsibility to perform and produce results, and it is also my responsibility to make sure the boys are up for the task and go out to play and produce results.”
A Season in Crisis?
With just four points from five matches—one win, one draw, and three losses—Caps United find themselves dangerously in the relegation zone, a far cry from the standards expected of one of Zimbabwe’s most storied clubs. The defensive lapses that cost them against Ngezi have been a recurring theme this campaign, raising questions over whether Chitembwe still has the tactical nous to steer the ship back on course.
Fans, known for their passionate support, are growing increasingly restless. Social media has been ablaze with calls for change, with some even suggesting that the club’s hierarchy may soon be forced to make a difficult decision if results don’t improve swiftly.
What’s Next for the Green Machine?
Caps United’s next fixture—a clash against Highlanders F.C.—now looms as a must-win encounter. Another slip-up could see them further entrenched in the drop zone, piling even more pressure on Chitembwe and his men.
For now, the message from the dressing room remains one of resilience. But in football, patience wears thin quickly, and unless the Green Machine can rediscover their winning formula, the storm clouds over the club will only darken.
Final Score:
Caps United 1 – 2 Ngezi Platinum Stars
(Manokore 69’ | Chirinda 40’, Karengesha 72’)
Current League Position:
16th – 4 points (5 matches played)
Will Chitembwe survive the storm, or is the writing on the wall for the Caps United legend? Only time will tell.
