FC Platinum has confirmed it will head to Zambia for its pre-season with one clear goal – to ‘sharpen their saw’ ahead of the upcoming 2026 PSL campaign.
In previous seasons, FC Platinum camped in Bulawayo for pre-season, but this time around, under Joel Lupahla’s guidance, they’re opting for different conditions, and signs of change are beginning to show at the four-time PSL winners.
Lupahla took over at FC Platinum at the tail end of 2025, replacing Norman Mapeza, whose contract wasn’t renewed when the season ended. Formerly with Simba Bhora, Lupahla aims to carve a niche and step out of Mapeza’s shadow as FC Platinum hopes to reclaim its stake in the PSL.
Last season, things didn’t go well, with a 5-2 loss to eventual title winners, Scottland FC at Mandava Stadium on August 2, marking the start of a series of misfortunes.
As a result, they finished sixth. This year, touring Zambia is their first step towards turning things around. Zambian clubs are known for their blistering tempo and physicality, often dictating matches through rapid transitions and relentless pressing.
This high-octane style is what Lupahla wants to expose his team to before attempting to reclaim the PSL title. FC Platinum General Manager Collin Nikisi confirmed the plan to Fanzone, though he didn’t reveal the teams they will face. It’s understood they are setting up friendlies against giants, Zesco United and Zanaco.
“For our pre-season, we’ll be heading to Lusaka, Zambia, for two weeks. We were originally scheduled to leave this week, but due to unforeseen circumstances, we’ve pushed the trip to next week. Zambia’s a great fit for us – the weather’s good, facilities are solid, and the style of play is physical, which mirrors the kind of opponents we’ll face back home. We’re excited and are finalising our itinerary, including friendly matches against some Zambian teams,” Nikisi told Fanzone.
FC Platinum has been busy signing new talent, including Cameroonian goalkeeper Ekoi Manfred, Namibian striker Tjahikika Mbakondja, Cameroonian forward Emmanuel Dogbey and and midfielder Maxwell Paipi.
Local signings include Trevor Bhunu from Golden Eagles, defender Takunda Vareta from Yadah FC. They have also added Tadiwa Muchenje, who was with Chicken Inn, Garikai Damatsika from Green Fuel, David Mangezi, formerly with ZIFA Central Region Soccer League side Sheasham, and Takunda Manyuchi, who joined from Bikita Minerals, completes the list.
