Former CAPS United and Zimbabwe national team defender Charles Sibanda has passed away at the age of 70. Affectionately known as “Raw Meat”, Sibanda died in Harare last week Tuesday, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of Zimbabwean football history.
Sibanda was a stalwart of CAPS United during the club’s golden era in the 1980s, a period when the Harare-based team dominated domestic cup competitions. His defensive prowess and leadership on the field were pivotal in earning the club the revered nickname ‘Cup Kings’, a testament to their string of victories and sustained excellence during that decade.
Throughout his playing career, Sibanda shared the pitch with some of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated footballers. He was a contemporary of Stanford “Stix” Mtizwa, Shacky “Mr Goals” Tauro, Stanley “Sinyo” Ndunduma, and Joel “Jubilee” Shambo, forming a generation of players whose skill, determination, and flair captivated fans across the country. His disciplined defending and tactical understanding made him a reliable presence in the backline and a player respected by teammates and opponents alike.
After hanging up his boots, Sibanda remained deeply involved in football. He transitioned into coaching, lending his expertise to several clubs, including Air Zimbabwe Jets and Circle United. In these roles, he nurtured young talent and instilled in players the values of professionalism, discipline, and dedication that had defined his own career.
Sibanda’s influence extended beyond coaching, as he later took on administrative responsibilities within the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA). He served on several high-profile committees, including the Electoral Committee and the Normalisation Committee, where his experience and insight helped shape governance and policy decisions in Zimbabwean football. His contributions in administration highlighted his enduring commitment to the development and professionalisation of the sport.
Zimbabwe Mourns the Passing of Football Legend Charles “Raw Meat” Sibanda
Tributes for Sibanda have poured in across social media and from former colleagues, players, and football enthusiasts, celebrating both his on-field achievements and his lasting influence off it. Many have praised his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation of Zimbabwean footballers.
“Charles Sibanda was a giant of Zimbabwean football,” wrote one fan. “He inspired so many players, both on and off the pitch. His legacy will never be forgotten.”
Former teammates and players who had been coached or mentored by Sibanda have shared stories of his discipline, humility, and passion for the game. His commitment to the sport was evident not only in his playing career but also in the countless hours he spent developing football at club and national levels, ensuring that Zimbabwean talent continued to thrive.
Sibanda’s impact was felt not just in Harare but across the nation, as his contributions helped raise the profile of domestic football and strengthen the framework for nurturing talent. His dual role as a player and later as a coach and administrator reflects a lifelong dedication to the beautiful game.
In remembering Sibanda, many highlight his ability to bridge generations. He played alongside legendary figures of Zimbabwean football, coached emerging stars, and served in administrative roles that shaped policy and governance, leaving an indelible mark on all levels of the sport.
His passing has prompted calls to honour his legacy by documenting his contributions and inspiring future generations of footballers to emulate his commitment, skill, and love for the game. Tributes continue to underscore that his influence extended far beyond his playing days, cementing his place in the history of Zimbabwean football.
Charles “Raw Meat” Sibanda will be remembered not only for his defensive excellence on the pitch but also for his tireless work in coaching, mentoring, and football administration. His life and career serve as a shining example of dedication to sport, and his absence leaves a profound void in the Zimbabwean football community.
As the nation mourns, fans, former colleagues, and aspiring players alike reflect on a remarkable career that helped define an era. From Cup King defender to respected coach and administrator, Sibanda’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of Zimbabwean footballers for years to come.
Source- Bulawayo
