Johnson Progress

FC Platinum has officially appointed Joel Luphahla as their new head coach, replacing Norman Mapeza, who departed the club after a decade-long tenure.

Luphahla, a former Zimbabwean international and Warriors winger, is expected to meet his new players on Wednesday and begin preparations for the upcoming season.

According to reports, Luphahla’s appointment is a done deal, and he is set to take charge of the team as they look to rebuild and regain their status as one of Zimbabwe’s top clubs.

Mapeza, who led FC Platinum to three Premier Soccer League titles and three Castle Challenge Cups, bid farewell to the club after a 0-0 draw against Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium.

In a statement, FC Platinum praised Mapeza’s contributions, saying, “It has been a decade of glory and transformative football that reshaped our club’s identity. Under his guidance, FC Platinum became the gold standard of Zimbabwean football, fusing flair with grit and stamping a Platinum seal both on and off the pitch.”

Luphahla, who previously served as head coach at Simba Bhora and assistant coach at Highlanders, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

He recently acquired his CAF B coaching badge and is eager to take on the challenge at FC Platinum.

“I can feel the pressure,” Luphahla said in a previous interview.

Luphahla’s appointment marks a new era for FC Platinum, and fans are eager to see how he will shape the team.

With his experience and passion for the game, expectations are high that he will lead the team to success.