His 2026 mission is straightforward — bring PSL football to Gwanda. Highlanders legend Johannes ‘Tshisa’ Ngodzo has outlined how he wants to conquer the ZIFA Central Region Soccer League.
Ngodzo, who recently extended his contract as Gwanda Pirates head coach, led Amajahunda to a third-place finish in the first divisional league behind Hardrock FC and Sheasham FC.
That was their maiden season in the league. With Hardrock FC now in the PSL and Sheasham FC doubtful, this could turn out to be Pirates’ season to march into the top flight — if their performance last season is anything to go by.
And Ngodzo is hoping to carve a niche as a coach and be the man to bring back PSL football to Gwanda after the now defunct Njube Sundowns who once used Phelandaba Stadium in Gwanda as their home ground.
“PSL is the dream this season. We’re in to compete, but we know it’s gonna be tough with rivals like Blanket Mine FC and Chapungu FC also in high spirits to be promoted.
“We just need a bit of financial boost to cover some details and ensure stability. Losing key players like Prince Gwetu to Hardrock and Nigerian striker Benjamin Oluwarotimi Adeogun to Highlanders hurts, but we’re working with what we have.
“Teams are aware of us now, as we are in our second season, so it’s a different ball game. Last season taught us a lot, we saw how Hardrock and Sheasham battled it out till the end. We’re ready for the challenge. Our goal is to make Gwanda proud and bring top flight football to the city, that’s what drives us,” Ngodzo told Fanzone.
Meanwhile, at Central Region level, there is stiff competition in Gwanda with Blanket Mine FC, ZRP Gwanda FC, West Nicholson FC and Super Strikers all battling for the town’s bragging rights.
