Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
CHAMPIONS Scottland have signalled their intent to build on last season’s historic triumph.
Club chairman Everson Chatambudza is confident the team can successfully defend their title.
Scottland made history by winning the Premiership title in their debut top-flight season – a feat last achieved by lack Rhinos.
The Mabvuku-based outfit have undergone significant restructuring both on and off the field to position themselves for sustained success.
“Yes, several changes were made within the club and we believe they are to bolster the club as a whole,” Chatambudza said.
“The changes which were made were aimed at bringing in more experience and expertise within the club.
“For example, bringing in Peter Ndlovu back home is a massive coup for our club. “His experience at the highest levels, including with Mamelodi Sundowns, is exactly the calibre we need in our dugout as we prepare for the demanding season ahead in both the league and the CAF Champions League.”
The champions have also received substantial financial backing from benefactor Wicknell Chivayo, who donated US$300 000 during Ndlovu’s unveiling ceremony.
The cash injection is expected to bolster the club’s preparations for a demanding campaign that includes domestic the title defence and continental participation.
“The injection from our benefactor, Chivayo, is a game-changer,” Chatambudza said.
“It provides us with the financial muscle to strengthen the squad and ensure our logistics are top-tier as we aim to defend our title and make a mark on the continent.”
The champions are in the midst of their long pre-season training camp and spent two weeks in South Africa and Eswatini.
Scottland’s qualification for the CAF Champions League has raised the stakes for the upcoming season. Chatambudza made it clear that the club’s ambitions extend beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
“So, we are looking forward to have a successful season both locally and abroad,” he said.
On the players’ front, Scottland have adopted a more measured approach to recruitment compared to last season.
Club sources indicate the focus has been on strengthening key positions rather than wholesale changes, with several fringe players released as part of a squad rationalisation process.
Defensive reinforcements include Kenyan international Joash Onyango, while left-back Kwake Twala has been signed from Eswatini champions Nsingizini Hotspurs.
In midfield, the champions have added Soccer Stars of the Year finalists Abubakar Moffat and Emmanuel Ziocha, the latter having recorded the most assists in the league last season.
The club have also retained key attacking talents – Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona – recognising that their experience will be vital for the CAF Champions League campaign and domestic title defence.
Mathew Masinge