‘It’s going to be emotional..’: Tonderai Ndiraya’s wholesome answer on facing Scottland FC

Chicken Inn FC coach Tonderai Ndiraya has opened up about the ’emotions’ of facing his former paymasters, Scottland FC, a club he led to win the PSL title in their maiden season, 2025.

Ndiraya’s Chicken Inn FC are scheduled to host Scottland FC on Saturday at Barbourfields in a match that could keep fans perched at the edge of their seats, but it’s critically emotional for Ndiraya, who faces his former club for the first time since parting ways at the end of last season.

Admittedly, Scottland FC have not been the same under Norman Mapeza, rather they have been indifferent, as they have drawn more than they have won in 13 matches.

They have garnered five wins, seven draws, and one defeat. The Harare-based side failed to beat ZPC Kariba in their last league match, while Chicken Inn FC suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to FC Platinum at Mandava Stadium.

I HAVE MOVED ON SAYS TONDERAI NDIRAYA

As it stands, the two teams are separated by four points, with Scottland perched in fourth place with 22 points, while The Gamecocks, sit in ninth place with 18 points. Nevertheless, Ndiraya is upbeat ahead of their clash but admits that it is ’emotional’ for him.

“It’s going to be an emotional one because of the history that is between us and that team. It’s a team that I respect. It’s a team that is owned by Honorable Sakupwanya, who I feel has really done a lot, has really invested a lot in football.

“Meeting them at this time of the season is something that I always cherish. But I’ve since moved on. I’m now with Chicken Inn FC. And we want to compete in a very big way and make sure that we take advantage of our home ground and get something out of this game. It’s a very difficult game.”

Ndiraya added: “We are all aware that Scottland FC has got a loss of quality in every department in their team. So that’s what is making the whole match quite interesting. As a coach, playing against a quality side is a challenge, but it’s a challenge that we are willing to take. It’s a challenge that we are really looking forward to.”

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