Thabo Senong’s first words as FC Platinum coach
New FC Platinum coach Thabo Senong has framed his return to Zimbabwe as a demanding “mission” to revive a club that has been a pale shadow of itself since Norman Mapeza’s exit.
Thabo Senong replaces Joel Luphahla, who was sacked on Tuesday due to results deemed below par, after 25 matches. The 45-year-old will be assisted by fellow South African and former Bafana Bafana, Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Reneilwe Letsholonyane.
Moses Mwafulira and Alexio Sigion will also be part of his technical team. Senong inherits a team that has won four league titles in the last decade, the largest number by any team.
Three of those titles were won under former Chippa United Norman Mapeza, who is now at Scottland FC. Lizwe Sweswe helped them win one of the titles.
As it stands, FC Platinum sit 11th in the 18-team league with 31 points. Senong will be expected to guide them to a top-eight finish in the remaining nine matches. In truth, they could be relegated if they fail to maximize in the remaining matches.
Reneilwe Letsholonyane set to assist Thabo Senong. Picture by Matebele FC/Facebook
WHAT THABO SENONG SAID
“I’ve just joined a very good, ambitious team called FC Platinum. It’s the second part of the league, it’s nine games to go. I’m very humbled to have joined this team,” Senong told Sport Night Amplified with Andile Ncube.
“We are mindful of the responsibility because the league is very competitive. The team is not in a very good position at the moment. So there’s just a lot of work that we need to do. I’m grateful for the opportunity given by the club and also for the reception from everyone at the club.”
Senong returns to the Castle Lager PSL after his stint with Highlanders FC was cut short. He joined Bosso in January on a two-year contract, but was later replaced by Benjani Mwaruwari.
Now at FC Platinum, he has cup competitions in his sights, both the first-ever Munhumutapa Challenge Cup and the 2026 Chibuku Super Cup. He begins with a home clash against Simba Bhora at Mandava Stadium on Saturday.
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