Chiragwi Apologises and Steps Aside After Touchline Slap

Ngezi Platinum Stars coach Takesure Chiragwi apologises and steps aside after slapping player McDonald Makuwe during a PSL match at Rufaro Stadium (image source)

Ngezi Platinum Stars coach and Warriors assistant Takesure Chiragwi has issued a public apology and temporarily stepped aside from national team duties after being filmed slapping midfielder McDonald Makuwe during Saturday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium—an incident that has shocked players, fans, and football officials alike.

Television footage captured the altercation in the 34th minute, moments after Dynamos’ equaliser, showing Chiragwi—already animated and later red-carded—lash out when Makuwe attempted to calm him. The clip, broadcast live on ZBC Jive TV, spread rapidly on social media, triggering public outrage and widespread condemnation.

In a statement issued Sunday, Chiragwi described his behaviour as “wholly inappropriate and unbecoming of a coach, leader, and representative of our game.” He said he had personally apologised to Makuwe, who accepted the apology, and confirmed he would step aside from the Warriors technical team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers to allow investigations to proceed “without prejudice.”

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has launched a formal inquiry and requested a detailed incident report from Ngezi Platinum Stars, pending official match documentation. The PSL reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on violence and promised disciplinary action if warranted. Ngezi Platinum Stars also released a statement expressing regret and pledging a full internal review, citing “respect, professionalism, and discipline” as non-negotiable club values.

Witnesses described a tense and surreal scene on the touchline as teammates rushed to protect Makuwe while technical staff restrained Chiragwi. “It felt like watching a family argument spill into the street,” one player said, while another urged for calm and due process.

The 41-year-old coach, known for his tactical acumen and emotional intensity, now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust within the football community. With the Warriors preparing for qualifiers and the domestic league battling questions of professionalism, observers say this case will set a precedent for accountability among coaches and officials.

“Regardless of the circumstances or emotions of the moment, there is no justification for my actions,” Chiragwi said in closing.