Mapeza Unveiled At Chippa United

Chippa United confirmed the appointment of former Zimbabwe, Galatasary and Ajax Cape Town midfielder Norman Mapeza as head coach at an unveiling ceremony yesterday afternoon.

Mapeza took the “high risk” move by agreeing a 3-year deal to become coach of ABSA Premier Soccer League side Chippa United.

Chippa Chairman Siviwe “Chippa” Mpengesi is renowned for the hiring and firing of coaches with at least 20 coaches having been at the helm of the club in 6 years of the club’s premiership existence.

“We are happy to have coach Mapeza and we congratulate him.

“Not only is he highly experienced‚ but he is also highly regarded by colleagues in the football fraternity.

“He brings a wealth of experience that will no doubt inspire the players and take the team to greater heights.” said Mpengesi expressing satisfaction at having Mapeza on their books.

Mapeza comes to Chippa riding on the crest of a wave of success having won back to back titles with FC Platinum in 2017 and 2018 in Zimbabwe on top of another title with Monomotapa United in 2008.

FC Platinum under the guidance of arguably one of the most successful young coaches in Zimbabwe also enjoyed a successful run in African Champions League entering the group stages where they once met then South African representatives Orlando Pirates.

Mapeza is no stranger to South African football after enjoying a short playing stint at Ajax Cape Town during the 2005/2006 season.

He becomes the second Zimbabwean gaffer in Super Diski after Supersport United coach Kaitano Tembo who recently scooped his maiden title as a coach by bagging the MTN8 Cup in his second season.

The club took to Twitter to welcome their new coach with a photo of Mapeza and Mpengesi both engrossed in smiles exchanging “hearty” handshake.

“Our Chairman introduces and welcomes Head Coach Norman Mapeza this afternoon. We wish Coach all of the best, with the support of the office, the technical team and players” the club said on their Twitter page.

By Gerald Dandah