FC Platinum Set for Intensive Pre-Season Camp in Zambia Ahead of 2026 PSL Season

FC Platinum will head to Lusaka, Zambia, for an intensive pre-season training camp as the four-time league champions prepare for the 2026 Premier Soccer League (PSL) season. The Zvishavane-based club is taking a new approach after spending previous pre-seasons in Bulawayo, opting for a change of scenery to reset and rebuild following a challenging 2025 campaign.

Under new head coach Joel Lupahla, the Lusaka camp is expected to provide the competitive edge needed to restore FC Platinum’s title credentials. The team will spend two weeks in Zambia, where they are scheduled to play a series of high-intensity friendly matches against local clubs.

Zambian teams are known for their pace, physicality, and aggressive pressing style, traits Lupahla wants his players to experience ahead of the domestic season. While official opponents are yet to be confirmed, sources suggest that Zesco United and Zanaco are likely to feature in the preparatory fixtures.

Confirming the camp, FC Platinum General Manager Collin Nikisi told Fanzone, “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. 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 actively strengthened its squad. Key foreign signings include Cameroonian goalkeeper Ekoi Manfred, forward Emmanuel Dogbey, Namibian striker Tjahikika Mbakondja, and midfielder Maxwell Paipi. Locally, the club has added experienced players such as Trevor Bhunu (Golden Eagles), Takunda Vareta (Yadah FC), Tadiwa Muchenje (Chicken Inn), Garikai Damatsika (Green Fuel), David Mangezi (Sheasham), and Takunda Manyuchi (Bikita Minerals).

The Lusaka pre-season camp represents a critical step in FC Platinum’s 2026 preparations. By combining a rigorous training environment, competitive friendlies, and a strengthened squad, the club aims to hit the ground running and reclaim dominance in Zimbabwean football.

This move signals the club’s commitment to tactical growth and squad cohesion, ensuring FC Platinum is ready to compete at the highest level in the upcoming PSL season.