In what will go down as one of the standout results of the 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season, Scottland FC delivered a breathtaking performance to hand FC Platinum their first defeat of the campaign, thumping the league leaders 5-2 at Mandava Stadium.
It was a result that sent shockwaves through Zimbabwean football — not just because FC Platinum had gone 22 matches unbeaten, but because of the sheer dominance shown by the visitors. The result also marked the first time in Norman Mapeza’s illustrious coaching career that one of his teams conceded five goals in a single match.
Scottland FC struck early when Walter Musona coolly converted a penalty in the 9th minute after being brought down by goalkeeper David Bizabani. Although FC Platinum responded through a Shepherd Mhlanga tap-in, Scottland retook control just before half-time. Tymon Machope burned past the defence and calmly finished to make it 2-1 at the break.
Machope, in red-hot form, extended the lead after the interval by capitalising on a blunder from Bizabani, blocking his clearance and rolling the ball into an empty net. Moses Shidolo made it four, finishing a well-timed through ball from Mafious Chihweta.
FC Platinum found a late lifeline through Wilfred Muvirimi’s header, but Scottland responded once again, with Albert Manenji completing the 5-2 statement win.
While delighted with the result, Scottland head coach Tonderai Ndiraya was critical of his team’s defensive lapses, noting that the two goals conceded were avoidable and allowed Platinum a way back into the game. Nonetheless, he praised his side’s attacking intent and execution, crediting their high pressing and counter-pressing strategy.
Mapeza, visibly stunned, conceded that the hosts were outplayed and that his players never recovered from early defensive errors.
To cap off the sensational day, Sir Wicknell Chivayo reportedly promised a whopping US$100,000 bonus for the Scottland squad. It was their fifth consecutive win, and with the Chibuku Super Cup looming and just a point separating them from Simba Bhora at the top, this new-look Scottland FC side now looks like serious title contenders.
