FC Platinum Head to Zambia for Pre-Season

 

FC Platinum will head to Zambia for an intensive pre-season training camp as the four-time league champions seek to fine-tune their squad ahead of the 2026 Premier Soccer League season.

The Zvishavane-based side is breaking from tradition after spending recent pre-seasons in Bulawayo, opting instead for a change of scenery as part of a broader reset following a disappointing 2025 campaign. 

Under new head coach Joel Lupahla, the club believes the Lusaka camp will provide the competitive edge needed to restore their title credentials.

As part of the rebuilding programme, FC Platinum will spend two weeks in the Zambian capital, where they are expected to play a series of high-intensity friendly matches. 

Zambian teams are known for their pace, physicality and aggressive pressing style—attributes Lupahla is keen for his players to test themselves against before the domestic season begins. 

While official opponents are yet to be confirmed, sources indicate that Zesco United and Zanaco are among the clubs lined up for preparatory fixtures.

Confirming the tour, FC Platinum general manager Collin Nikisi said the camp remains central to the club’s preparations despite a slight delay.

“We’ll be going to Lusaka for two weeks. The trip was initially planned for this week, but it has been pushed to next week due to unforeseen issues,” Nikisi told Fanzone. “Zambia offers good weather, quality facilities and a physical brand of football that closely mirrors what we expect in the PSL. We are finalising friendly matches and are looking forward to the camp.”

Off the field, FC Platinum has been busy reshaping its squad, with several foreign signings joining the club. These include Cameroonian goalkeeper Ekoi Manfred, Cameroonian forward Emmanuel Dogbey, Namibian striker Tjahikika Mbakondja and midfielder Maxwell Paipi.

The club has also reinforced locally, signing Trevor Bhunu from Golden Eagles, defender Takunda Vareta from Yadah FC, Tadiwa Muchenje from Chicken Inn, Garikai Damatsika from Green Fuel, David Mangezi from Sheasham and Takunda Manyuchi from Bikita Minerals.