NEW Simba Bhora head coach Mandla Mpofu has expressed immense confidence in his side, stating his rebuilt side has the depth and international quality to sweep every trophy on offer this season.
Despite a massive squad overhaul during the transfer window, Mpofu has enjoyed a steady start to life in Shamva.
Simba Bhora remain one of only five teams yet to taste defeat after four games, sitting fifth on the log with eight points — trailing leaders Caps United by just four.
The hallmark of Mpofu’s early tenure has been a historic defensive solidity.
Simba Bhora currently boast the best defensive record in the topflight, having kept clean sheets in every league match played so far.
This defensive steel is particularly impressive considering the club lost several key players, including defender Ishe Mauchi, Soccer Star of the Year finalist Emmanuel Ziocha, Junior Makunike, Donald Mudadi and Isaskar Gurirab.
To fill the void left by departing stars, Simba Bhora went on a continental recruitment drive.
The club secured the signatures of four Namibian internationals — Tevin Naweseb, Alferus Leevi, John Samaneka, and Kennedy Eib — alongside towering Malawian centre-back Lawrence Chaziya.
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When asked about his targets for the season, Mpofu didn’t hesitate.
“Championship... yes, the championship,” Mpofu stated unequivocally.
“We went out and got internationals. We have got four Namibians and two Malawians who play for their national teams.
“With that quality, there will be no excuse. We are gunning for everything on offer.”
Beyond the league title, Mpofu is eyeing the Chibuku Super Cup and the inaugural Zifa Munhumutapa Challenge Cup.
Other notable players that have joined the club are Tichaona Chipunza, Adrian Silla and Claude Mapoka.
“I have a very good pool of players.
“I’m happy with the players that I have. I have too much depth in this team.
“I think we will compete all the way.”
While the ambition is high, the squad depth is currently being tested by a growing injury list.
The 2024 league champions were decimated ahead of their clash against Highlanders just before the international break, missing captain Blessing Moyo, Carlos Mavhurume and Blessed Ndereki.
The situation worsened during the Bosso match, as Leevi, a Namibian attacking midfielder, picked up a knock and debutant John Samaneka lasted only 20 minutes before being stretchered off with a groin injury.
“I hope everyone will be available when we resume our games next week,” said Mpofu, who remains optimistic that his pool of players can handle the upcoming fixture congestion.
Simba Bhora face a defining week when the league resumes.
They travel for a tricky away fixture against Bulawayo Chiefs next Thursday before returning to Shamva three days later to host giants Dynamos.
Interestingly, all of Simba Bhora’s wins this season have come on the road (against Manica Diamonds and TelOne).
Mpofu will be desperate to secure his first league victory in front of the home supporters at Wadzanayi Stadium when the Glamour Boys descent in Shamva.
Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Matchday 5 fixtures
Thursday: Hunters v ZPC Kariba (Heart Stadium), Triangle v Agama (Gibbo), Hardrock v Herentals (Chahwanda), Ngezi Platinum Stars v Caps United (Baobab), TelOne v Scottland (Ascot), Bulawayo Chiefs v Simba Bhora (Barbourfields), Manica Diamonds v Chicken Inn (Green Fuel), Dynamos v Mwos (Rufaro)
Friday: Highlanders v FC Platinum (Barbourfields)
