Match fixing — ZIFA tells PSL clubs integrity is non-negotiable as leaked audio puts CAPS United v Scottland clash in spotlight
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has reminded all Premier Soccer League (PSL) club governors of their responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and fair play.
The reminder follows a leaked audio recording in which a woman claims she was sent by Scottland FC officials to approach Washington Arubi, allegedly to influence a CAPS United goalkeeper to “fix” an upcoming match. According to the recording, Arubi rejected the approach.
The audio has gone viral. The claims and the full context of the conversation have not been revealed, nor have the parties involved clarified the issue.
In the clip, the woman, identified as Bridget, says in Shona: “Ndatumwa na Scott, kuti taura na keeper arikubata pa CAPS, pakaipa.”
She says “Scott” is currently in Russia. In local football circles, “Scott” is associated with Pedzai Sakupwanya, owner of Scottland. Scottland are due to play CAPS United, where Arubi is a goalkeeper, although he is currently injured.
CAPS United host Scottland on Thursday, 29 October 2026, in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League fixture at Rufaro Stadium. Scottland need to win to keep their title hopes alive.
Sakupwanya is a close associate of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently in Russia, where he is attending the 27th St Petersburg International Economic Forum and related Russia-Africa engagements.
In a letter dated 28 October and addressed to all Premier Soccer League club governors, ZIFA general secretary Yvonne Mapika Manwa stressed that the integrity of the local game remains non-negotiable.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association wishes to remind all Premier Soccer League Club Governors of their responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and fair play in all football activities,” wrote Manwa.
“The integrity of our game remains non-negotiable. ZIFA maintains a firm zero-tolerance stance against match manipulation, corruption, and any conduct that undermines the credibility of football.
“All clubs are expected to ensure that their officials, players, technical teams, and representatives conduct themselves in a manner that protects the reputation and values of the game.
“Club leadership is urged to remain vigilant and to actively promote compliance with all applicable ZIFA, CAF, and FIFA regulations governing ethics, integrity, and competition
“As custodians of Zimbabwean football, let us collectively safeguard the integrity of our competitions and ensure that every result is determined solely by merit, commitment, and performance on the field of play.
“ZIFA appreciates your continued cooperation and commitment to protecting and advancing the reputation of Zimbabwean football.” *_-Pindula_*
