Scottland FC Sack Norman Mapeza After CAF Champions League Heartbreak as Peter Ndlovu Takes Charge

Scottland FC have reportedly parted ways with head coach Norman Mapeza following their disappointing elimination from the CAF Champions League, with former Mamelodi Sundowns star Peter Ndlovu appointed as interim coach for the remainder of the 2026 season.

According to reports by FARPost, the Zimbabwean champions decided to make changes to their technical team after suffering a dramatic collapse against Angolan giants Petro de Luanda in the second preliminary round of Africa's premier club competition.

Scottland entered the return fixture with a promising 2-0 advantage from the first leg but failed to protect their lead, losing 3-0 in Angola. The defeat resulted in a painful 3-2 aggregate loss, ending their hopes of progressing to the group stages.

The elimination represents a major setback for a club that had invested significantly in strengthening its squad ahead of its continental debut. Expectations were high that Scottland could make an impression in Africa after recruiting several experienced players, including former Betway Premiership stars.

However, their failure to capitalise on the first-leg advantage has reportedly prompted the club's leadership to reconsider its technical direction, leading to Mapeza's departure alongside members of his coaching staff.

Ndlovu, who previously served as Scottland's team manager, has now been entrusted with the responsibility of restoring stability and guiding the team through the remainder of the campaign.

The former Zimbabwe international enjoyed a distinguished playing career, including a memorable spell at Mamelodi Sundowns. He also captained Zimbabwe's national team and holds a CAF A coaching licence.

His familiarity with the club could prove valuable as Scottland attempt to recover from their continental disappointment.

The club's domestic campaign has also encountered difficulties, with Scottland eliminated from the Chibuku Super Cup and falling behind in the league title race.

Ndlovu must now rebuild confidence, improve consistency and keep the team competitive as the season approaches its conclusion. Meanwhile, Scottland's management will face the important task of deciding on a permanent successor to Mapeza.

Source

https://x.com/FARPostZA/status/2114636095358976008