Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
AGAMA FC, making their Premier Soccer League (PSL) debut, have strengthened both their squad and technical team as they prepare for their first topflight match against CAPS United at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.
The Mount Darwin-based side has reshuffled its coaching structure, promoting Paul Chimalizeni to technical director following his role in guiding the club to promotion—the first team from Mount Darwin to reach the PSL. Mark Andrew Mathe, former assistant coach at CAPS United and Dynamos, has been appointed head coach.
“We are ready. We recruited players from outside and retained some from Division One. The players are blending well, and our aim is to compete. We are not here just to get into the Premier League and go out,” Mathe said.
Agama have reinforced their squad with 12 new players, including three foreign recruits. Key signings include striker Eric Etienne from Nkana FC, right back Philiso Newman from Mbabane Swallows, Ghanaian striker Richard Kumi, previously with Chegutu Pirates, and Zimbabwean forward Jayden Mapuranga, returning from Jomo Cosmos.
“I was playing in Ghana before joining Chegutu Pirates, and now I am here at Agama. So far, I feel at home with the coaches and my teammates,” Kumi said.
Team captain Tinashe Balakasi emphasised the club’s ambition in the topflight:
“We are ready, but we are not over-promising to the fans. Our goal is to compete like any other team. I can assure supporters that we are determined not to be relegated.”
Agama will use Wadzanai Stadium in Shamva as their home ground, while plans are underway to upgrade Pfura Stadium to meet ZIFA standards.
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