By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Ngezi Platinum Stars coach and Zimbabwe national team assistant coach Takesure Chiragwi has apologised formally and stepped aside from his Warriors duties following his outrageous behaviour during a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Rufaro Stadium on Saturday.
The incident, which was caught live on ZBC TV, occurred moments after Ngezi conceded a goal in a match that ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw.
Chiragwi was seen striking midfielder McDonald Makuwe, apparently in anger, after the player attempted to calm him down.
The footage shows Chiragwi slapping Makuwe, raising concerns about conduct on the sidelines.
In a statement released on Sunday, the 41-year-old coach described his actions as “wholly inappropriate and unbecoming of a coach, leader, and representative of our game.”
“I wish to sincerely and unreservedly apologise for my regrettable conduct,” Chiragwi said.
“Regardless of the circumstances or emotions of the moment, there is no justification for my actions. I take full responsibility for the hurt and embarrassment they may have caused.”
He further revealed that he has personally apologized to Makuwe, who accepted the apology with understanding and graciousness.
Chiragwi also extended apologies to Ngezi Platinum Stars, the Premier Soccer League (PSL), ZIFA, fans, and the wider football community, acknowledging that his behavior “fell far short of the standards expected” of him.
To facilitate a thorough investigation, Chiragwi confirmed he has stepped aside from his duties with the Warriors’ technical team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Lesotho.
He said he would cooperate fully with all disciplinary procedures and accept whatever sanctions may be deemed appropriate.
The incident has also drawn condemnation from the Premier Soccer League, which announced it has launched an inquiry into the matter.
The PSL has requested a detailed report from Ngezi Platinum Stars and is awaiting official match reports.
“The league strongly condemns any form of violence and will not hesitate to take appropriate disciplinary action where necessary in line with the PSL rules and regulations,” the statement read.
The PSL further indicated it would not comment further until all reports have been received.