THE sleeping giant has awakened with a roar.
At a glitzy kit and player unveiling ceremony in Harare on Wednesday, CAPS United signalled the end of a prolonged period of stagnation, declaring their ambition to re-establish themselves as Zimbabwe’s premier football club.
The Makepekepe faithful have endured three difficult seasons hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone — a stark contrast to the glory days that earned the club its famous “Cup Kings” nickname.
However, buoyed by a staggering US$4,3 million sponsorship deal from Green Dollar Development Bank, CAPS now appear determined to turn the tide. The landmark three-year partnership, signed last September, has triggered a sweeping transformation both on and off the pitch.
Club chief executive officer Morton Dodzvo made it clear that the club has set its sights firmly on reclaiming dominance in the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season, which kicks off today.
“At CAPS United, we are not just about football — we are about building a legacy,” Dodzvo said.
“Our vision is very clear: to be Zimbabwe’s leading football club, inspiring and uniting our community through the beautiful game. The huge investment this season cannot be ignored. To our fans and stakeholders, we promise one thing: we will give it our all. We will play with passion, pride and unity.”
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To match the financial backing, the club has appointed championship-winning coach Takesure Chiragwi and strengthened the squad with a raft of high-profile signings.
But CAPS return to a league that is arguably more competitive than ever.
They will face stiff competition from defending champions Scottland FC, the ever-ambitious Chicken Inn and Kwekwe-based newcomers Hardrock FC, among others, in what promises to be a fiercely-contested campaign.
Guest of honour Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya praised CAPS for their renewed ambition and highlighted the broader growth of football in Zimbabwe.
“This moment signals new ambition, fresh energy and the beginning of what promises to be an exciting football season in Zimbabwe,” Jesaya said.
“As a ministry, we are encouraged by the growing popularity of football across the country. The emergence of new teams and renewed competitiveness in the league has injected fresh excitement into our domestic football.”
She also underscored the significance of the club’s growing commercial outlook.
“The league is becoming increasingly competitive, professionally managed and commercially awake. My hope is that this season will reflect improved standards in administration, officiating, player welfare and fan engagement.
“We want a league that is vibrant, transparent and globally respected.”
While Hunters and Chicken Inn get the 2026 season underway today at Rufaro Stadium, the Green Machine will have to wait until Sunday to begin their campaign.
CAPS United will open their season against newly-promoted AGAMA from Mt Darwin, also at Rufaro Stadium, as they begin what they hope will be a return to the summit of Zimbabwean football.
CAPS United 2026 senior squad
Phenias Bamusi (C), Bret Amidu, Takunda Benhura, Kundai Benyu, Junior Bunjira, Talent Chamboko, Kudzai Chigwida, Chitoshi Chinga, Obriel Chirinda, Nyasha Gurende, Richard Hachiro, Brian Kadamanja, Bruce Kangwa, Chawananga Kaonga, Stephen Odai Kwaku, Wallace Magalane, McDonald Makuwe, Davison Marowa, Tinotenda Meke, Wesley Milanzi, Kennedy JR Mupomba, Delic Murimba, Lloyd Njaliwa, Tanaka Shandirwa, Ishmael Wadi, Junior Banisi, Junior Chando, Brendon Chiragwi, Alleny Mukombedzi, Shawn Mutede.
