Scottland FC sack Mapeza after Champions League exit

Defending Premier Soccer League champions Scottland FC have sacked head coach Norman Mapeza and his entire backroom staff, just three days after the club's elimination from the CAF Champions League.

Team manager Peter Ndlovu is the only member of the technical team to survive the shake-up and will take charge as caretaker coach while the club searches for a permanent replacement.

Scottland are reportedly targeting a European coach to replace Mapeza, who joined the club in November last year after leaving FC Platinum.

Although the club had not issued an official statement by Sunday night, Mapeza's manager, Gibson Mahachi, confirmed that the coach had been dismissed with immediate effect.

The decision means Mapeza will not be in charge for Scottland's final four league matches or their Munhumutapa Cup semi-final.

Scottland's title defence suffered another setback on Sunday after Hardrock defeated MWOS 3-2 at Chahwanda Stadium, opening an eight-point lead at the top of the standings. Hardrock have played two games fewer and need to win their remaining matches to secure the championship.

Mapeza had been backed by high-profile signings as Scottland, owned by millionaire gold dealer Scott Sakupwanya, sought to make a strong impression in the Champions League.

However, sources at the club indicated that the coach's position was already under threat before Scottland's 3-2 aggregate defeat to Angola's Petro de Luanda in the second preliminary round on Friday.

The former Zimbabwe captain was reportedly accused of being arrogant, holding grudges against certain players who subsequently received limited playing time, and being unwilling to accept advice.

Ndlovu will be assisted by Scottland Academy coach Danger Fourpence as the club begins its search for Mapeza's permanent successor.