Mapeza fired as Scottland’s title defence falters

Scottland FC have sacked head coach Norman Mapeza with immediate effect following their defeat to Petro de Luanda in the CAF Champions League last Friday.

Mapeza’s manager, Gibson Mahachi, confirmed to The Herald that they had received a termination letter from the club.

“The decision is with immediate effect. But we are yet to sit down with the club to discuss termination. That is all I can say,” Mahachi said.

The sacking comes as Scottland’s league title defence falters. Hardrock’s win over MWOS on Sunday left the Mabvuku-based side eight points adrift of the leaders. Scottland still have two games in hand, but their hopes of retaining the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title now look slim.

The club has developed a reputation for being trigger-happy with its coaches. Genesis Mangombe was dismissed despite leading Scottland to promotion to the Premier Soccer League in 2024 after winning the ZIFA Northern Region Soccer League. In 2025, Tonderai Ndiraya was shown the door despite winning the league title.

Scottland have reportedly identified Dynamos coach Aristica Cioabă and former Warriors coach Michael Nees as possible replacements.

Cioabă is understood to be the front-runner. However, the reigning champions may have to wait, as the Romanian is still under contract with Dynamos and would be expected to see out the season with the Harare giants.