Takesure Chiragwi recently made headlines after an incident during a match on Saturday, October 4, 2025, where he was shown a red card and subsequently slapped his own player, Macdonald Makuwe, while coaching Ngezi Platinum Stars. The incident occurred shortly after Dynamos equalized against Ngezi Platinum Stars in a league tie at Rufaro Stadium. Chiragwi has since issued a public apology for his actions, attributing them to emotions but acknowledging their unacceptability.

On October 9, Makuwe released a statement describing the incident as an accident. He said, “The Head Coach inadvertently raised his hand, and in doing so, he accidentally made contact with me”. The statement has been met with widespread skepticism and criticism on social media. Many observers found the characterization of the slap as “accidental” implausible, given the video evidence showing the clear, forceful contact.

Please see the full statement below:

Mcdonald Makuwe

06 October 2025

To: NPS FC C.E.O

Madam Amanda,

Subject: Account of Incident during the Match against Dynamos

I am writing to provide a formal account of the incident that occurred during our recent match against Dynamos. During the game, an unwarranted goal was awarded to Dynamos, which understandably led to frustration amongst our players and technical team members towards the referee’s decision. In the heat of the moment, players and staff were engaged in remonstration. Our Head Coach, Mr. Chiragwi, attempted to mediate the situation by encouraging the players to refrain from further engaging with the fourth official, as this could lead to additional disciplinary actions against our team, especially since the Coach had already received a red card.

Unfortunately, during this exchange, the Head Coach inadvertently raised his hand, and in doing so, he accidentally made contact with me. I want to emphasize that this incident did not cause me any physical harm, nor did it affect our relationship. I see Coach Chiragwi as more than just a coach; he has been both a mentor and a father figure to me during my time at the club and even before that. I take no offense to what was clearly an unintended gesture amidst a highly charged situation. During the match, I was substituted into the game and played my heart out, motivated by the desire to win the game for the coach.

Following the incident, Coach Chiragwi apologized to me in front of the players and Mr. Musariri, the Club Chairman. I truly appreciated his acknowledgment.

In conclusion, I wish to clarify that the incident was not a serious matter, and I hold no grievances regarding the situation.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

MacDonald Makuwe