TELONE FC president Oscah Nduwure has declared that the "Wi-Fi Boys" are targeting a top-four finish in the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) season, signalling the club’s intent to rise from mid-table finishers to genuine title contenders. Speaking on the sidelines of the PSL pre-season workshop in Harare on Saturday, Nduwure confirmed that the Gweru-based side is undergoing an overhaul to improve on last season’s fifth-place finish.
Backed by one of Zimbabwe’s largest telecoms companies, TelOne FC has strengthened its squad through key signings and strategic player retention, aiming to turn steady progress into a genuine challenge for the league’s elite.
Despite losing the reigning Soccer Star of the Year, Washington Navaya, Nduwure expressed confidence in coach Herbert Maruwa’s recruitment strategy.
"The preparations are going on well, and we hope to go for pre-season camp maybe next week," Nduwure said.
“We will not be travelling outside the country; we will be local, possibly in Bulawayo or Kariba. We have identified last season’s gaps and signed players to address them.”
The TelOne FC president confirmed the acquisition of experienced campaigner Jerry Chipangura, midfield engine Innocent Mucheneka, and goalkeeper Takudzwa Chikosi, alongside the return of former player Marvelous Chigumira.
Crucially, leaders Frank Makarati, Leeroy Murape, and versatile forward Tawanda Macheke — with 17 goal involvements last season — remain central to the squad.
“We have also managed to retain our top players like Tawanda Macheke, captain Frank Makarati, and we have also tried to solidify our defence with the acquisition of Chelsea Nyakope,” Nduwure said.
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“Obviously, no chairperson would want their club to drop down from what they have achieved in the past. Last season we finished in fifth place, and this time anything better than number five will be good for us."
TelOne’s rise has been rapid: 10th in 2024, 5th in 2025, and now aiming for a top-four finish or silverware in 2026.
To match their on-field ambition, the club is currently renovating Ascot Stadium to meet Zifa First Instance Board requirements.
Improvements include increasing stadium exits to three and adding new ticket booths to handle the anticipated surge in match-day attendance.
With financial stability and a bolstered roster, TelOne FC is no longer content being the league’s “dark horse” — they are ready to compete at the front.
