Former Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) and Cosafa president Phillip Chiyangwa recently had the pleasure of attending the Euro 2024 final between Spain and England at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. This prestigious event was made possible by an invitation from UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, showcasing the strong connections Chiyangwa developed during his time in football administration.
Chiyangwa, who also witnessed the thrilling semifinals, where Spain defeated France 2-1 and England triumphed over the Netherlands 2-1, expressed his delight in being able to enjoy the benefits of his past work. While in Germany, he had the chance to meet with FIFA secretary Mattias Grafstrom and renowned coach Fabio Capello, further solidifying his extensive network within the football community.
Although there have been speculations about Chiyangwa’s potential return to football administration, he made it clear that there are no immediate plans for him to seek the Zifa presidency again. Currently, he is relishing the joy of spending quality time with his newly remarried wife. However, Chiyangwa stressed the significance of having a passionate leader for Zimbabwean football, someone who understands the demands of the game and possesses the ability to attract sponsors.
During his tenure as Zifa president from 2016 to 2018 and Cosafa president until 2022, Chiyangwa firmly established himself as a key figure in African football. Notably, he played a crucial role as campaign manager for Madagascar’s Ahmad Ahmad, showcasing his dedication to the growth and prosperity of football on the continent.
As Chiyangwa reminisces about his experiences and enjoys the Euro 2024 final, his presence serves as a reminder of the far-reaching impact that a passionate and well-connected leader can have on the world of football.