CAPS United Coach sees unity

CAPS United coach Ian Bakala has revealed that when he first arrived, the team was grappling with internal divisions, but now he is witnessing a strong sense of unity and commitment among the players at the Green Machine.

The Zambian coach, warmly embraced by CAPS United supporters, has overseen two challenging matches since taking charge  -  tough clashes against local rivals Dynamos and Herentals. Both games ended in draws, with CAPS managing to score in each encounter.

With 10 points from 12 games, CAPS United currently sit just three points above the relegation-threatened Kwekwe United, highlighting the uphill task Bakala faces.

"There's a lot of work that has to be done for the club to be where it belongs. We are working on something new, which is different from the past," Bakala said.

"I found a lot of things which were not being done correctly when I joined the club. It takes time for some of the players to understand what CAPS United means. There was a bit of division among the players when I came but now you can tell the love is there and they are adopting my philosophy."

Bakala added that the players are now training twice as hard as before, eager to impress the new coach. He is using this period to get to know each player thoroughly, though no new signings have yet been made.

"I haven't signed any player yet but it is something I'm looking forward to doing during the mid-season break. We want to bring in players who will take this club where it belongs," he said.

The coach admitted it pains him to see Makepekepe flirting dangerously with relegation.

Looking ahead, Bakala's men will host Simba Bhora this weekend in a Castle Lager Premiership Week 13 fixture at Rufaro Stadium. The upcoming match will mark Bakala's third consecutive game in charge.

Simba Bhora will be making their third visit to Rufaro this season, having previously lost there twice to Dynamos and Highlanders. Historically, Simba Bhora fans have rarely celebrated wins in Harare, a pattern dating back to their days in the ZIFA Northern Region Division One League.

DeMbare fans also recall that Simba Bhora's fourth visit to Rufaro this season included a Castle Challenge Cup defeat against Dynamos earlier on.

With the Green Machine hoping to climb the table and Simba Bhora chasing a crucial win to keep pace with the league leaders, this fixture promises intense action.

The football gods appear to be smiling on Ian Bakala as he leads CAPS United through a rebuilding phase full of hope and determination.