Story by Mthokozisi Dube
NORMAN Mapeza will take centre stage this weekend as he makes a highly anticipated and emotional return to Mandava Stadium, a venue where he built a lasting legacy over a decade.
Now in charge of defending champions Scotland, Mapeza will be in the opposition dugout when his side faces his former club FC Platinum in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash this Saturday.
Affectionately known as Mushina Wemajuzi, Mapeza joined FC Platinum in 2014 and ended the dominance of Harare and Bulawayo giants by guiding the Zvishavane outfit to their maiden league title. He went on to deliver three championships and played a key role in a fourth triumph achieved under his former assistant, Lizwe Sweswe.
His deep bond with the Mandava faithful, often symbolised by his trademark salute to the Pure Platinum Play supporters, adds an emotional layer to what is already a high-stakes encounter.
This time, however, loyalties will be tested.
Mapeza faces the delicate task of balancing professional duty with personal history, seeking victory for his current side while confronting a club where he became a legend.
Across the technical area stands another former Warriors figure, Joel Luphahla, who has been rebuilding FC Platinum since taking over at the end of last season.
With just five points separating the two sides, the fixture promises intensity, pride and tactical intrigue, a true “game of thrones” in the Midlands.
