Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
JOEL Luphahla’s last competitive match, just a few months ago, was in the Dynamos colours and they won silverware.
Luphahla’s first game, since that Chibuku Super Cup success story, will be against the Glamour Boys and there is a piece of silverware at stake.
He is now employed by Simba Bhora, after making his switch from DeMbare during the off-season, and he could win a trophy in his first game when he guides the league champions in the Castle Challenge Cup at Rufaro on Saturday.
And, DeMbare coach Lloyd “MaBlanyo” Chigowe believes Luphahla’s presence in the Simba Bhora camp could be an advantage for the league champions.
Former Dynamos players Donald Mudadi and Emmanuel Ziocha are also now at Simba Bora.
“We are building a team not only for this game but for the rigours of a potentially explosive season,” said MaBlanyo.
“At Dynamos, every game is demanding.
“It was a pleasure working with Joe (Lupahla), a hardworking, enterprising and enthusiastic coach.
“We became a cordial technical team in the short time we worked together.”
Dynamos and Simba Bhora have had contrasting preparations for the new season.
Simba Bhora camped in Polokwane, DeMbare struggled to keep their players motivated as outstanding salary issues resurfaced.
DeMbare lost a number of players, including star players Donald Mudadi and Tanaka Shandirwa.
There are reports that the Glamour Boys are bankrupt. They are backing on renewing their deal with Sakunda Holdings whose money has been the club’s lifeblood in the past two years.
Simba Bhora have just struck a lucrative US$500 000 deal with energy drink company Surge.
It was also the same day they captured 2023 Golden Boot winner William Manondo from CAPS United.
Manondo is the latest signing at Simba Bhora who have also brought in Never Tigere, Blessed Ndereki, Liberty Chakoroma and former CAPS United ‘keeper Tonderai Mateyaunga.
Luphahla said he wants to win the Castle Challenge Cup.
“This is a Cup final and we are treating this match as such,” says Luphahla.
“I know Dynamos would also want to win and that makes it an interesting duel.
“My club president Simba Ndoro and club chairman Isaiah Mpfurutsa have emphasised the importance of this match.
“A win will help boost our confidence going into the difficult season we are facing.”
