Online Reporter
Don Makanyanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
With a dark cloud hovering over Ngezi Platinum following a FIFA transfer ban, coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva faces an uphill task ahead of the 2026 Premier Soccer League season.
But Mutiwekuziva heaved a sigh of relief in his first game in charge of Ngezi Platinum Stars on Saturday.
His side emerged 2-1 winners over rivals FC Platinum in the “Platinum Derby” at Baobab.
The win comes as a massive boost for the coach, who stepped into the hot seat under the shadow of a FIFA-imposed transfer ban.
The former league champions were slapped with a three-window registration ban over the compensation dispute with former assistant coach Bongani Mafu, involving nearly US$200,000.
Speaking after his first official match in charge, Mutiwekuziva admitted that the pre-season had been an uphill battle due to the club’s inability to register new talent.
“It was a very difficult pre-season; actually, it was a very difficult off-season coming into pre-season trying to regroup as a team under the situation that unfolded,” he said.
“It is normally difficult for most players taking to the field under such situations, especially looking at all that has happened.
“We have kept faith in the work that we have been putting in behind the scenes, trying to give them courage and the opportunity to be part of the team — to play under such situations and conquer. I am quite happy with the courage, confidence, bravery, and hard work they put in to win the game.”
The transfer ban was further compounded by the departure of eight senior players and the majority of the technical team, led by Takesure Chiragwi, to CAPS United.
“I have been telling them that this is an opportunity because, in football, it’s normal for players and coaches to move.
“This situation creates an opening for other players to do well or establish themselves,” said Mutiwekuziva.
“This platform is going to give a chance to players who have been overshadowed by those who left the club.
“I look forward to them doing their work, working hard, and showing their character. They will display their talent and prove they can do better than the players who were here before.”
The former Herentals coach remains optimistic about the depth of his squad.
“Most of the players — some of them have been on loan and are back after getting game time.
“I would like to thank the previous coaches and the management for developing such depth; loaning players out so they return with experience to play in the Premiership.
“This is a marvellous strategy that can sustain this club, and I am quite positive and happy with the depth we have,” said Mutiwekuziva.
