Story by Fungai Jachi
TRIANGLE United have overhauled their technical team and reinforced their squad as the Lowveld-based club seeks to avoid another relegation battle in the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
The Sugar Boys survived the drop by a narrow margin last season, an experience that has prompted decisive changes as preparations for the new campaign gather momentum.
Club officials confirmed the appointment of a new technical bench led by head coach Thomas Ruzive, who returns to the club for a second stint. He will be assisted by Emmanuel Day Gutu and Newsum Mutema, with Robert Jiuro taking charge of goalkeeping duties and Brian Mapfumo appointed fitness trainer.
Triangle United chairperson Weston Jemwa said the restructuring forms part of a broader strategy aimed at stabilising the club and improving its competitiveness in what is expected to be a demanding season.
“We have made new signings, starting with the technical team. Our head coach is Thomas Ruzive, assisted by Emmanuel Day Gutu and Newsum Mutema. Robert Jiuro is our goalkeepers’ coach, while Brian Mapfumo is the fitness trainer,” Jemwa said.
On the playing side, the club has moved to strengthen key areas, signing Simbarashe Bizabani from FC Platinum, Issa Sadiki from Manica Diamonds, who was on loan at Chicken Inn, and Emmanuel Chikwende from GreenFuel.
Jemwa said the club believes the new additions will help Triangle United steer clear of the relegation zone and achieve greater consistency over the course of the season.
Ruzive said his immediate focus will be on gradual improvement rather than ambitious targets, citing last season’s struggles as a reminder of the work that lies ahead.
“Last season, the team was fighting relegation, so we aim to change that situation. We cannot talk about winning the league at this stage because there is a lot that needs improvement. We will take things step by step and work on building fitness and experience,” he said.
Triangle United have, however, lost key players ahead of the new season, with midfielder Munashe Bamara joining newly promoted Hardrock and promising youngster Witness Shave completing a move to Dynamos.
The 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League is expected to be highly competitive, with defending champions Scottland seeking to retain their title amid challenges from established sides Highlanders, CAPS United and Dynamos, as well as ambitious newcomers Hardrock.
