In the wake of a fiery post-match interview that set tongues wagging across Zimbabwe’s footballing fraternity, FC Platinum Coach Norman Mapeza and sports journalist Tafadzwa Chigandiwa have smoked the peace pipe, resolving what sources close to the matter describe as a mere misunderstanding blown out of proportion.
The incident, which unfolded in front of cameras at Rufaro Stadium on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, had football fans and media pundits alike weighing in, with opinions sharply divided. According to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, the misunderstanding arose as Coach Mapeza arrived for the interview moments after the final whistle, while Chigandiwa had not yet fully framed his question — leading to a tense exchange that was caught on camera.
“It was never about disrespect. The coach was still in match mode, adrenaline pumping, and the question hadn’t quite landed. It was simply a misfire in communication,” said the insider.
To defuse the tension and safeguard the club’s longstanding rapport with the media, FC Platinum moved swiftly to arrange a mediation meeting. That sit-down took place on Monday, 5 May 2025 in Harare, with seasoned media strategist Munyaradzi Hwengwere of Mejrkh Communications and Media Advisory presiding over proceedings.
In the meeting, Mapeza reportedly reaffirmed his respect for the critical role journalists play in growing the game, and pledged to maintain a spirit of mutual professionalism moving forward.
“Coach Mapeza made it clear that the moment was unfortunate. He values the media and recognizes their place in shaping the football narrative,” the source said.
Chigandiwa, a rising name in Zimbabwe’s sports journalism circles, was equally gracious. He was happy with the engagement, underscoring his commitment to covering FC Platinum with fairness and integrity. The duo are said to have shaken hands — both figuratively and literally — marking the end of the brief saga.
“Both parties acknowledged it was a heat-of-the-moment misunderstanding. There’s no lingering animosity. If anything, it’s made the working relationship stronger,” the source noted.
Coach Mapeza went a step further, inviting all sports journalists to continue attending FC Platinum matches.
