Ian Bakala Proud to Preserve Unbeaten Derby Record as CAPS United Draw with Dynamos
CAPS United head coach Ian Bakala expressed satisfaction after his side earned a 1-1 draw against arch-rivals Dynamos FC in a fiercely contested Harare derby, extending his personal unbeaten record in the historic fixture. The Week 12 clash of the Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League ended with both sides sharing the spoils, a result that lifted Makepekepe to 14th place with 10 points.
Resilience in the Derby: Bakala’s Pride in His Players
The fixture, played on Sunday afternoon, marked Bakala’s first Harare derby as head coach—a role he took on during a challenging period for CAPS United. Despite entering the match as underdogs, his side showed grit and determination, qualities Bakala was quick to highlight in his post-match comments.
“I’m very glad that they showed what we did in training. I just wanted to beat them; I have never lost to Dynamos as a player,” Bakala said.
His deep connection to the club and derby was evident. While he admitted his disappointment at not securing all three points, he acknowledged that the draw still carried personal significance.
“As a coach I just wanted to beat them, but it’s a game I can’t compare myself and the current team to; they are just coming up in the game.”
Building a Competitive Team on Merit
Bakala’s focus, however, remains firmly on the future. He has made it clear that his team selections are based on merit, and that players need to prove themselves every week in training to earn a place in the starting lineup.
“I pick the team on merit, so players will have to work hard. Everyone wants to prove because I am new here; they are training hard.”
The 43-year-old tactician also emphasized the growing sense of unity and camaraderie within the team, pointing out that while results have not come easily, there is a noticeable shift in attitude and work ethic.
“Everyone is fighting at the moment; for one to play, they have to work extra hard. It’s time for them to know what CAPS needs, and I think they are catching up, but there is unity and love.”
Work in Progress: Improvement Needed in All Departments
Despite the encouraging signs, Bakala acknowledged that his team is still a work in progress. Scoring goals and tightening up defensively remain key areas that need immediate improvement if CAPS United are to climb the standings.
“There’s improvement, but we need to work on scoring the same as at the back; we need to work on it. Every department is important.”
With just 10 points from 12 matches, CAPS United find themselves hovering just above the relegation zone. However, their performance against Dynamos suggests there is potential for a turnaround under Bakala’s guidance.
Looking Ahead: Simba Bhora Clash Up Next
CAPS United will now shift their focus to an upcoming fixture against Simba Bhora, a match that Bakala views as another opportunity to build momentum.
“I watched how they play; it’s going to be a good game, but for us, the way they performed today in the coming game, we will get a positive result.”
With the derby now behind them and confidence slowly returning to the camp, Bakala’s side will be eager to register a crucial win and continue their journey out of the bottom half of the table.
Conclusion: Encouraging Signs for Makepekepe
While the 1-1 draw against Dynamos may not have been the victory that Bakala hoped for, it offered a glimpse of promise for CAPS United fans. The former Chipolopolo midfielder is instilling belief, discipline, and accountability in his squad. If the Harare giants can convert their fighting spirit into wins, the second half of the season could yet offer redemption for the Green Machine.
