Mwale backs Scottland FC for title

FORMER Zambian international Clive Mwale, who played for Dynamos and CAPS United, has tipped Scotland FC as serious contenders for the Zimbabwean Premier League title this season.

Mwale, who organized Scotland FC's preseason camp in Lusaka, Zambia, was impressed by the team's potential. 

"I handled their logistics, including training grounds, accommodation, and practice matches," he explained.

"This trip was excellent for team bonding. From what I witnessed, they have the potential to challenge for the championship."

Scotland FC has assembled a formidable squad, featuring local league standouts Walter Musona, first runner-up for Soccer Star of the Year Lynoth Chikuhwa, and second runner-up Khama Billiat. The club has also secured the signatures of Godknows Murwira, Ghanaian Ansa Botchway, Tymon Machope, Peter Mudhuwa, and other prominent players.

Adding to their strength, Scotland FC has recruited reigning Coach of the Year and league title winner Tonderai Ndiraya from Simba Bhora, along with his preferred backroom staff.

Despite the team's impressive roster, Mwale emphasized the importance of unity, stating, "You can have talented players, but without unity, success is impossible. I believe the Lusaka camp fostered that essential team spirit."

Mwale, a former Zambian international, played for prominent Zimbabwean clubs, including Dynamos and CAPS United, as well as Shooting Stars in Harare. In Zambia, he also played for Nchanga Rangers in Chingola and Lusaka Dynamos.

During the tour of Zambia, the Scottland delegation met with the Zimbabwe Ambassador to Lusaka, Charity Charamba.

Head of delegation and Scottland FC vice-chairman, Mussa Gwasira presented Ambassador Charamba and the rest of the embassy staff with replicas of the home jersey.   

Ambassador Charamba said Scottland had the potential to win the Zimbabwe championship. 

“I foresee a bright future for the team. Going forward, I see you on top of the charts. It is also quite reassuring to note that Mr Scott Sakupwanya is supporting His Excellency President Mnangagwa’s foreign policy vision of engagement, re-engagement and diplomacy. 

“You are engaged in sports diplomacy. Sport influences diplomatic, intercultural, social, economic and political relations,” she said. 

Gwasira said:

“We are in Zambia to bond and build our team. We are also here to learn how other teams are doing and to play friendly matches in preparation for our upcoming season.”   

Scottland also visited the Heroes Acre, where the Zambian Air Disaster victims, primarily the national football team members who perished in the 1993 Gabon air crash, are buried. 

The memorial site is located near Independence Stadium in Lusaka and serves as a place of remembrance for the team and other victims of the disaster.