Zimbabwean international goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze has opened up about his decision to commit his future to Magesi FC, despite the Limpopo-based side suffering relegation from the Betway Premiership last season.
The veteran 36-year-old shot-stopper has been a pillar of strength for Dikwena Tsa Meetse, playing an important role in their top-flight campaign. Chipezeze was instrumental in helping Magesi to their historic promotion to the Betway Premiership in 2024.
The club’s debut season in the elite league will be remembered for their fairy-tale run in the Carling Knockout Cup, when Magesi shocked Mamelodi Sundowns in the final to lift the trophy. Chipezeze was the hero of that tournament, as he scooped the Man of the Match accolade in every single game they played.
But the following season saw Magesi struggle for form and consistency. Despite the former Baroka FC shot-stopper putting in immense work to save his side from the chop, his efforts could not prevent Magesi from dropping back down to the Motsepe Foundation Championship last season.
In that campaign, Chipezeze featured in 34 games across all competitions for Dikwena Tsa Meetse, keeping seven clean sheets.
WHY ELVIS CHIPEZEZE EXTENDED HIS STAY AT MAGESI FC
Speaking to journalists at the Ranch Resort on Tuesday, 14 July, Chipezeze explained that his deep connection to the club and a desire to right the wrongs of last season motivated him to sign a contract extension.
“Well, it was just me, as I wanted to continue building memories with this football club because we have been together for about four seasons. I was happy with the project, and I felt that, personally, things didn’t go well in the Betway Premiership,” Chipezeze said.
“So, I wanted the team to stay in the top flight, but that’s another challenge on its own. As a football player, I like challenges, and this is the thing that I asked myself: ‘Why don’t I go for another year and try to create good memories with this football club?'”
ELVIS CHIPEZEZE BACKING THE CHAIRMAN’S VISION
The veteran keeper also pointed to his strong relationship with the club’s leadership as a driving factor for his stay. He believes Magesi has the foundation to make a swift return to the Betway Premiership.
“You know, the chairman [Solly Makhubela] had a vision, and for the vision to be out there, you need to be part of that. So, it was a decision from me that I think I need to go for another year,” he concluded.
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