Makuwe's header ends CAPS United's unbeaten run

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

Ngezi Platinum Stars secured a vital 1-0 victory over Harare giants CAPS United yesterday at Baobab Stadium, thanks to an early goal from Makuwe. The win snapped CAPS United's impressive five-match unbeaten streak and propelled Ngezi Platinum Stars back to winning ways after a recent dip in form.

The solitary goal, scored just eight minutes into the entertaining league encounter, saw Ngezi Platinum Stars hold onto their sixth-place position in the standings with 35 points from 22 matches, placing them eight points behind log leaders Simba Bhora. For CAPS United, the defeat means they remain in 10th place with 25 points from 22 games, still four points clear of the relegation zone.

Despite an early push from the visitors, it was Ngezi Platinum Stars who drew first blood. The goal originated from a corner kick, set up moments after a brilliant save by Stephen Kwaku denied Leslie Kashitigu. Talent Chamboko flighted the ball in, which was expertly headed across goal by Kudzai Chigwida before Makuwe calmly nodded it into the net.

Ngezi Platinum Stars coach Takesure Chiragwi expressed his delight with the win, acknowledging the quality of their opponents. "To be honest, we were playing a very good team that is also fighting to go on and win the match and improve their position," he stated after the game. Chiragwi lauded his players' resilience and hunger for the win, emphasizing their ability to capitalize on the chances they created.

Conversely, CAPS United coach Ian Bakala lamented his team's missed opportunities, feeling they had the upper hand for much of the game. "Well, today’s game, I think we didn’t come to the party. We could have won this game from the first minute," the Zambian coach remarked. He admitted that conceding in the second half put his team under pressure and was not part of their game plan, but stressed the need to focus on the next match.

CAPS United pressed hard for an equalizer throughout the match, creating several chances through players like Nyasha Chintuli and Junior Bunjira. Defender Chitoshi Chinga even had the ball in the back of the net 10 minutes before halftime, only for it to be disallowed for offside.

In the second half, the visitors continued their relentless pursuit of a leveling goal. However, Ngezi Platinum Stars also had their moments, with Gomezagni Chirwa sending in an inch-perfect cross that led to a Chamboko header superbly tipped back into play by Stephen Kwaku.

The most dramatic moment for CAPS United came in stoppage time when Kope Mugalu watched in disbelief as his header from a Bruce Kangwa cross agonizingly grazed the outside of the upright post, denying them a late equalizer.

This hard-fought victory marks a significant turning point for Ngezi Platinum Stars, while CAPS United will be keen to bounce back quickly and reignite their push away from the relegation zone.