Online Reporter
Media Mpofu, Zimpapers Sports Hub
WITH the Women’s Premier Soccer League set to kick off on April 12, Bulawayo giants Highlanders Royals and newcomers Mpopoma Sports Academy have made significant coaching appointments in preparation for the highly anticipated season.
Highlanders Royals have roped in seasoned tactician Boga Ndebele to take charge of their campaign, while Mpopoma have turned to experienced coach Evans Netha to guide their debut season in the topflight. The two sides are set to clash in their opening fixture, promising an early battle for bragging rights in the city.
The Royals, who were previously under the guidance of former Zimbabwe Saints coach Edmore Sibanda, opted not to renew his contract, paving the way for Ndebele’s arrival. No stranger to women’s football, Ndebele has previously worked with clubs like FC Platinum Queens and brings a wealth of experience to the Royals’ dugout.
At Mpopoma Sports Academy, the appointment of Netha marks a reunion with club director James Rugwevera, with whom he previously worked before moving to Bulawayo Chiefs. His return comes after a three-year absence, following Chiefs’ decision to withdraw from the women’s league.
“We have brought in Netha because of his experience,” said Rugwevera. “We hope that our former coach, Nobuhle Majika, will learn from him and eventually take over the team in the future.”
Majika, a former Mighty Warriors stalwart, boasts over two decades in the game, having played for Entumbane-based New Orleans and Inline Academy. She remains one of the most capped national team players from Bulawayo, having featured in multiple generations of the Mighty Warriors.
While Mpopoma have confirmed their technical shake-up, Royals’ spokesperson Nozibelo Maphosa remained tight-lipped about Ndebele’s appointment. Despite the coach being spotted at training for the past fortnight, Maphosa insisted that no official announcements would be made until all technical and player matters were finalised.
“We are currently working on our squad, both technical and players, and will make an official announcement once everything is in place,” she said.
Meanwhile, Rugwevera expressed his delight at the club’s growing influence, with Mpopoma producing a talent who recently moved to Highlanders.
Tendai Muvuti, who had been on loan at Hwange, has now secured a place at Highlanders, marking a major milestone for Mpopoma.
“We are proud to have broken new ground as a club. Muvuti’s move to Highlanders is a testament to our development efforts, and we look forward to more collaborations with the city’s biggest football institution,” said Rugwevera.
With both clubs making bold moves ahead of the new season, the stage is set for an exciting and fiercely competitive campaign in the Women’s Premier Soccer League.
