Scottland FC Built for African Glory:Murisa

 

Caps United legend Stewart Murisa has saluted Scottland owner Pedzai Scott Sakupwanya for his football vision, ahead of the side's debut CAF Champions League campaign.

Speaking ahead of the Harare-based outfit’s continental debut against Eswatini champions Nsingizini Hotspurs scheduled for the first leg between September 4 and 6, followed by the return leg between September 11 and 13, 2026,the 1996 Soccer Star of the Year paid rich tribute to President Pedzisai "Scot" Sakupwanya.

"Special credit must go to President Pedzisai 'Scot' Sakupwanya for his incredible investment in football," Murisa affirmed. "He has shown immense passion and financial commitment, setting a new benchmark for how football clubs should be run in this country. His vision is giving Zimbabwean football a strong platform to rise and compete with the best on the continent."

The CAPS United legend expressed firm confidence that Scottland FC possesses both the squad depth and financial backing needed to progress beyond the group stages and cause major surprises during their maiden journey in the African Safari.

Murisa insisted he is not putting the squad under pressure, explaining that carrying an underdog tag can work to their advantage:

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"I am not putting the boys under any pressure whatsoever because they are heading into Africa as underdogs, and that underdog status will work to their advantage. It gives them the freedom to play without fear and take the game to their opponents, which can prove to be a massive edge on the big stage."

He added that the club’s ambitious project is built for long-term dominance across the continent:

"Scottland FC is not just being built to win trophies locally; with the level of resources and commitment being put into this team, they will soon be a powerhouse in Africa, not in Zimbabwe only. They have assembled enough quality and depth across every position, and I am fully confident they have what it takes to go past the group stages and cause serious upsets."

Central to Murisa’s optimism is the wealth of elite experience integrated within the playing group and technical setup, particularly highlighting former Warriors captain Peter Ndlovu, who previously served as Team Manager for South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns:

"When you look at the entire technical setup and the dressing room, the depth of knowledge is exceptional. Having Peter Ndlovu involved is a massive advantage for the team because his time managing a powerhouse like Mamelodi Sundowns gives him deep continental insight. That experience, combined with players who have competed at the international level, means the squad will not be intimidated by high-stakes African encounters."

Turning his attention to domestic individual accolades, the 1996 winner tipped three standout performers to battle it out for the prestigious 2026 Soccer Star of the Year gong. He named Khama Billiat, Mongameli Tshuma, and Ralph Kawondera as the leading candidates to claim the award, highlighting that Billiat brings elite game-changing quality, Tshuma has provided exceptional consistency in midfield, and Kawondera's relentless work rate has been paired with crucial goals. Murisa concluded that all three have performed at a level truly deserving of the main prize.

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