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Gianni Infantin

Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Sports Reporter
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has sent a congratulatory message to 2016 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Caps United, urging the club to continue on the path of hard work for more success.

Makepekepe, under Lloyd Chitembwe wrapped up a momentous season with a 1-0 win over Chapungu United at Ascot Stadium on Sunday, a victory that guaranteed them their fifth league title in history, having tasted their first league triumph way back in 1979.

The Green Machine had to wait for 17 years before their second walk to the gold medal podium with their third and fourth titles coming under Charles Mhlauri in 2004 and 2005 respectively.

Eleven years later, Chitembwe has led them to their fifth feel of the winners’ podium and the right to represent Zimbabwe and the right to fight for the $2.5million Caf Champions League winners’ prize.

In the congratulatory letter addressed to the Zifa president, Philip Chiyangwa, Infantino saluted all parties whose input produced a championship winning team.

“Please pass on my personal congratulations to Caps United on their performance.

“This is a true team victory, and all of you deserve to share in the accolades; the players and the coach of course, but also the technical and the medical staff, and, not least the loyal fans. The dynamism and commitment of the Caps United team have enabled them to win this title,” wrote Infantino.

He highlighted the importance of football in community development.

“Football is proving more than ever that it can transcend traditional boundaries to become a real driver of development.

“Football truly is a school for life and I am convinced that everyone, and in particular the young people of today, can benefit from playing on both a social and personal level.

“That is why I urge Caps United to continue their work, leading the path of success,” the letter reads.

In what could be a truly momentous season for Caps United, their talisman Leonard Tsipa could cap it all by winning the Soccer Star of the Year accolade whose winner will be announced at a function in Harare this evening. Tsipa has already grabbed the Golden Boot gong, which carries with it a $4 000 purse.

— @skhumoyo2000