Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
Ngezi Platinum Stars are emerging as one of the standout stories of the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season, remaining the only unbeaten side after ten matches despite a FIFA transfer ban and a mass player exodus.
Written off as relegation candidates at the start of the campaign, the Mhondoro-based side has turned adversity into results, posting five wins and five draws to sit third on 20 points—just two behind leaders CAPS United.
Their unbeaten run includes victories over the log leaders and strong performances against second-placed Hardrock and defending champions Scottland, underlining their growing credentials as title contenders.
At the centre of the resurgence is head coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva, who has steered the club through a challenging period marked by a transfer embargo, the departure of seven key players, and a lean squad of just 26.
Rather than dwell on setbacks, Mutiwekuziva has leaned on youth development, promoting academy products who have stepped up this season. Emerging talents such as Ashwin Karengesha, Tinotenda Ditima and Tinashe Mavhudzi have added energy and composure to the side.
The club has also strengthened continuity by recalling former academy graduates Tinotenda Murasiranwa and Elson Mweha from loan spells.
Experienced figures, including Farai Madhanhanga, Marvelous Mukumba, and Captain Qadr Amini, have provided leadership, helping balance youth with experience.
Mutiwekuziva, who built a reputation for nurturing talent at Herentals, is now reaping the rewards of that philosophy, combining disciplined structure with attacking intent.
Elsewhere, CAPS United lead the table with 22 points from 10 matches, with Hardrock a point behind. Scottland sit fourth on 17 points, level with Dynamos and Herentals, while Simba Bhora are just a point further back.
At the bottom, Manica Diamonds remain winless with two points, alongside fellow strugglers AGAMA. TelOne have picked up their first win to move to six points, just behind Triangle United, while FC Hunters round off the lower standings.
With momentum building and belief growing, Ngezi Platinum Stars are fast rewriting their script—from survival hopefuls to genuine title challengers.
