Scottland Prepares for Entry Into CAF Champions League
CASTLE Lager Premiership champions Scottland have launched a sweeping restructuring exercise as preparations intensify for their historic maiden appearance in the CAF Champions League later this year.
The Mabvuku-based side, who shocked Zimbabwean football by clinching the league title in their debut top-flight season, have parted ways with chief executive Ronald Moyo and released several players just days before the start of pre-season training.
Among the first departures confirmed by the club are Ghanaian midfielder Fredrick Ansa-Botchway and striker Lynoth Chikuhwa, who spent the second half of the 2025 campaign on loan at Chicken Inn.
Now under the guidance of former Zimbabwe international Norman Mapeza, Scottland are expected to announce more exits in the coming days as they reshape the squad to sustain domestic success while building a team capable of competing on the continental stage.
Sources close to the club indicate that a number of high-profile players could be released or loaned out. These include experienced midfielder Tichaona Chipunza, forward Michael Tapera, Vassili Kawe, expat striker Kuda Myaba, Marvelous Chigumira, Khama Billiat, Walter Musona, on-loan goalkeeper Tymon Mvula, and Kelvin Shangiwa.
Defender Elvis Moyo has already completed his return to Bulawayo Chiefs, where he was officially unveiled over the weekend.
Reinforcements Begin as Continental Focus Sharpens
On the recruitment front, Scottland have moved quickly to strengthen their squad ahead of a demanding season that will see them compete both locally and in Africa’s elite club competition.
The Pedzai “Scott” Sakupwanya-owned outfit has reportedly secured midfielder Abubakar Moffat from rivals MWOS, as well as three players from Dynamos — goalkeeper Prince Tafiremutsa, midfielder Vusa Ngwenya, and Ghanaian centre-back Issaka Mohammed.
Pre-season training is scheduled to begin tomorrow, with the club expected to officially unveil its revamped squad and new signings in the coming weeks.
Executive Changes After Historic Season
The restructuring has extended beyond the pitch, with Scottland also set to appoint a new chief executive following the departure of Ronald Moyo, who served the club for just one year.
Moyo joined in January 2025 as Scottland prepared for their first-ever Premier Soccer League campaign. Under his tenure, the club achieved a rare feat by winning the championship in their maiden season — a milestone last achieved by Black Rhinos in 1984.
In a statement, Scottland confirmed the separation was amicable:
“Scottland FC would like to inform its stakeholders that the club and chief executive officer, Ronald Moyo, have amicably parted ways.
The club extends its sincere gratitude to Ronald Moyo for his commitment, leadership, and the time he dedicated to Scottland FC. His efforts and contribution to the club are truly appreciated.”
Moyo, who previously worked at Highlanders, expressed pride in his role in Scottland’s rise.
“It is with deep gratitude and a heart full of fond memories that I bid farewell as the chief executive of Scottland FC,” he said.
“I wish Scottland FC nothing but the very best in defending your hard-earned title and in your maiden appearance on the continental stage at the CAF Champions League. Go make history.”
A Defining Season Awaits
With Mapeza now at the helm, new signings arriving, and further changes expected, Scottland face a defining 2026 season. Balancing the defence of their domestic crown with the rigours of CAF Champions League football will be the ultimate test for a club that continues to defy expectations.
All eyes will now be on how the Premiership champions complete their rebuild as they prepare to carry Zimbabwe’s flag onto the continental stage for the very first time.
