ZVISHAVANE – FC Platinum have appointed Joel Luphahla as their new head coach, sealing a swift return to the dugout for the former Zimbabwe winger following Norman Mapeza’s departure. Luphahla joins the Zvishavane side after parting ways with Simba Bhora, whom he guided to a third-place finish in the 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, eight points behind eventual champions Scottland FC. Simba Bhora confirmed his exit in a statement, saying they had “mutually agreed to part ways” at the end of his contract on December 31, 2025.
The club praised Luphahla for rebuilding the squad after an exodus of senior players. FC Platinum moved quickly to secure Luphahla’s signature as they embark on a new era following the end of Mapeza’s storied tenure, which delivered two league titles. Luphahla is expected to begin preseason duties immediately as FC Platinum target a return to dominance in 2026.
