Coach Steps Down After Slapping Player in Shocking Touchline Incident

Zimbabwe’s assistant coach Takesure Chiragwi has stepped down from his role just days before the Warriors are set to face Bafana Bafana, following a shocking incident in which he slapped one of his players during a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match over the weekend.

The dramatic scenes unfolded on Saturday, 4 October 2025, during the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash between Ngezi Platinum Stars and Dynamos FC at Rufaro Stadium. Chiragwi, who also serves as Ngezi Platinum’s head coach, was caught on live television striking midfielder McDonald Makuwe after a heated exchange on the touchline.

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According to reports from NewsDay Zimbabwe, the altercation occurred shortly after Dynamos equalised in the 32nd minute. Chiragwi, visibly furious over the referee’s decision to award the goal, began protesting aggressively. 

When Makuwe attempted to calm his coach down, Chiragwi lashed out and slapped the player in full view of cameras and spectators.

"I wish to sincerely and unreservedly apologise for my regrettable conduct during the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between Ngezi Platinum Stars and Dynamos FC at Rufaro Stadium on Saturday, 4 October 2025," Chiragwi said in a statement issued through NewsDay Zimbabwe.

 "My actions on the touchline, which were broadcast live, were wholly inappropriate and unbecoming of a coach, leader, and representative of our game."

The video of the slap quickly went viral on social media, sparking outrage across Zimbabwe’s football community and beyond. Many fans and pundits condemned the behaviour as unacceptable and unprofessional, particularly from someone holding a national team coaching position.

"First and foremost, I extend my deepest apologies to McDonald Makuwe, the player involved. I am deeply sorry for my behaviour towards you... Regardless of the circumstances or emotions of the moment, there is no justification for my actions," Chiragwi continued in his apology.

Following the incident, Chiragwi announced his resignation from the Zimbabwe national team, where he had been serving as first assistant coach to Michael Nees. His decision comes at a critical time for the Warriors, who are preparing to face Bafana Bafana in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier this Friday, 10 October, at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Sources close to the team suggest that the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) was likely to take disciplinary action had Chiragwi not stepped down voluntarily. 

His resignation, while expected, leaves the Warriors’ technical bench scrambling for a replacement just days before one of their most crucial fixtures.