CAPS United . . . . . . . . . (1) 2
AGAMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . (0) 1
WARRIORS forward Ishmael Wadi put on a masterclass, scoring once and providing a match-winning assist as Harare giants Caps United edged debutants Agama 2-1 in an explosive Castle Lager Premier Soccer League opener at Rufaro Stadium.
The veteran attacker, who took part in the Afcon finals in Morocco, proved decisive for the Green Machine. Wadi headed home the opener before showing calm composure to set up substitute Alleny Mukombedzi for the decisive strike 13 minutes from time.
Despite heavy off-season investment and being tipped as title favourites, Caps United had to battle for the win against a fearless Agama side that briefly threatened an upset. The victory
sets the tone for a competitive PSL season.
Agama pulled level shortly after the interval when Ralph Nyamupurika calmly lobbed goalkeeper Wallace Magalane, but Caps’ experience ultimately made the difference.
Reflecting on the tactical battle, Caps United coach Takesure Chiragwi praised his side’s adaptability.
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"I think we played well because we didn't know much about them. It was also difficult to plan because we didn't know how they were going to play," Chiragwi admitted.
"In the second half, we tried to make sure that we could also utilise our strength and also try to diffuse their strength. At the end of the day, we want to give credit to the players; they did very well in the first game of the season. The resilience from the guys and how we kept possession was marvellous."
Agama coach Mark Mathe remained encouraged despite the narrow defeat.
"If you get a team that got promoted into the PSL getting the Caps United coach to think very hard on how to go about things, it means we are on the right track,” he said.
"I'm disappointed with the result because I think we could have taken a draw or even a win. Going forward, I think we need to work on psyching the boys, because that [loss] was more of a result of nervousness and a bit of stage fright."
The contest ignited early. In the 12th minute, Junior Bunjira whipped in a teasing cross which Obriel Chirinda met with a cushioned knockdown, allowing Wadi to power a header past Jalazio.
Agama responded almost immediately when Emmanuel Chambara’s long-range effort forced a spectacular save from Magalane. Five minutes after the restart, Nyamupurika exploited a gap on the left and lobbed the goalkeeper to equalise.
Chiragwi introduced Takunda Benhura, Tinotenda Meke, and Lloyd Njaliwa to regain momentum. In the 77th minute, Wadi delivered a precise cutback from the byline for Mukombedzi, who had been on the pitch only three minutes, to score the winner.
Agama had a late chance to salvage a point, but Magalane’s crucial save with his feet sealed the victory.
Caps United now share the top of the table with five other teams after MatchDay One.
Teams:
Caps United: Wallace Magalane, Kudzai Chigwida, Chinga Chitoshi, Nyasha, Richard Hachiro, Takanaka Shandirwa ( Kufandaedza 75'), Brett Amidu (Lloyd Njaliwa 54'), Junior Bunjira (Tinotenda Meke 54'), Chawanangwa Kaonga (Kunashe Chando 89'), Ishmael Wadi, Obriel Chirinda (Takunda Benhura 54')
Agama: Mathias Jalazio, Hillary Kahanda, Emmanuel Chambara ( Alec Chiume 82'), Christopher Petros, Benard Chipanera (Langton Chivinda 74'), Takudzwa Chimhowa, Yusuph Khamis ( Cain Mashonganyika 82'), Tinashe Balakasi (c) (Richard Kumi 55'), Erick Matiaba(Grey Kufandada 74), Ralph Nyamupurika, Ackson Laban
Results
Highlanders 1-1 Bulawayo Chiefs
Caps United 2-1 Agama FC
Hardrock 0-0 Scottland FC
Manica Diamonds 0-1 Simba Bhora
