In preparation for the resumption of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, FC Platinum coach Norman Mapeza has been chosen to lead the Zimbabwean national team, known as the Warriors, in the upcoming Four-Nations tournament in Malawi. The tournament, scheduled to take place from March 18 to 26 in Lilongwe, involves Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya, and the host nation, Malawi.
With the absence of a permanent coach, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Normalisation Committee made the decision to entrust Norman Mapeza with this assignment. Mapeza, who has previously served as the national team coach, brings valuable experience to the role. Assisting him will be Takesure Chiragwi, the current coach of Ngezi Platinum and the reigning Castle Lager Coach of the Year.
In an official statement, ZIFA expressed their satisfaction with Mapeza’s appointment, highlighting his success as the head coach of FC Platinum, where he has won multiple league titles. Additionally, they acknowledged his previous leadership roles within the national team and his experience as a former national team captain.
“ZIFA is pleased to announce that Norman Mapeza has been appointed as the interim head coach of the men’s Zimbabwe national team, for the upcoming four-nations tournament in Malawi. The tournament which will be played in Lilongwe from the 18th-26th of March, features hosts Malawi, Kenya, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
“Norman Mapeza is the current head coach of Zimbabwe Premier League side FC Platinum with whom he has won multiple league titles. He is also a former national team captain and has had several stints as head coach of the men’s senior national team.
“Norman Mapeza will be assisted by Ngezi Platinum Stars head coach, Takesure Chiragwi,” said ZIFA.
