Ngezi Platinum Stars battled to a 1–1 draw against defending Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Scottland in an entertaining encounter at Rufaro Stadium on Friday.

The visitors produced a disciplined performance and took the lead early in the second half after a competitive opening period that saw both teams play attractive football but struggle to create clear scoring opportunities.

Scottland nearly opened the scoring before halftime when Panashe Mutimbanyoka found himself in a promising position, only to squander the chance with the goalkeeper beaten.

After the break, Ngezi returned with greater intensity and were rewarded when Farai Madhanhanga struck a powerful effort that goalkeeper Nelson Chadya failed to contain, handing the visitors a deserved advantage.

The champions responded by increasing attacking pressure and eventually earned a penalty after Moses Shidolo was fouled inside the box. Walter Musona calmly converted from the spot to level matters for the Mabvuku-based outfit.

Both sides searched for a late winner in a lively closing spell, with Scottland pushing forward while Ngezi stood firm defensively to secure a share of the points.

Scottland head coach Norman Mapeza said he was encouraged by his team’s overall display despite dropping points.

“I am happy with the progress that we are making as a team. In some moments, our decision-making could have been better, but it is still early in the season and I am satisfied with the progress,” said Mapeza.

Ngezi Platinum Stars coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva felt his side could have handled key moments better, particularly the penalty incident.

“We started well but did not defend certain moments properly. On the penalty, we could have done better, and we felt it was a soft decision — maybe the referee could have been more lenient,” he said.

Bulawayo giants Highlanders F.C. have confirmed that defender Andrew Mbeba has signed a new long-term contract extension that will keep him at the club until December 2028.

The announcement, made through an official club statement, secures the future of the highly rated defender amid growing speculation surrounding his next move.

“The Club is delighted to confirm that defender Andrew Mbeba has officially committed his future to the club, signing a contract renewal that will keep him at the Club until December 2028,” Highlanders said.

The renewal follows reports suggesting Mbeba had requested a house as part of his signing package during negotiations. While the club did not comment on the details of the agreement, sources indicated discussions were centred on improving the player’s welfare as part of the new deal.

At the same time, Harare giants Dynamos F.C. were reportedly monitoring developments at Amahlolanyama, fuelling speculation of a possible transfer before the contract extension was finalised.

Mbeba’s decision to remain at Highlanders is viewed as a major boost for the Bulawayo side, who retain one of their key defensive players as they continue preparations for the ongoing season.

Warriors vice-captain Marshall Munetsi has been left out of Zimbabwe’s squad for the upcoming Botswana Four Nations Tournament despite being in impressive scoring form in France.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) on Wednesday announced the squad selected by head coach Mario Marinica for the FIFA international break, during which the Warriors will compete in the regional tournament set for Francistown later this month.

Munetsi’s omission has emerged as the biggest talking point following the announcement, with the midfielder having scored three goals in his last three matches for his French club, Paris FC, highlighting his strong recent form ahead of the international break.

The influential midfielder has been a key figure for the Warriors in recent years and currently serves as the team’s vice-captain, making his absence from the squad particularly notable.

ZIFA did not immediately provide reasons for the decision, leaving supporters speculating.

During the last AFCON 2025 finals in Morocco, Munetsi was left out of the squad due to injury, but he later dismissed the claim during an interview with SABC.

Another notable absentee is Walter Musona, who has again missed out on the squad that travelled to Morocco.

Zimbabwe will take part in the Botswana Four Nations Tournament at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium, with matches scheduled for March 28 and March 31, 2026, as the national team continues rebuilding under Marinica.

Despite Munetsi’s absence, the squad includes several experienced internationals, among them midfielder Marvelous Nakamba, alongside a mix of locally based and overseas players.

Teenage Hadebe leads the defensive options, while Prince Dube, Macauley Bonne, and Tawanda Maswanhise headline the attacking department.

Warriors Squad

Goalkeepers:

Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi FC), Future Sibanda (ZPC Kariba), Marley Tavaziva (Brentford)

Defenders:

Andrew Mbeba (Highlanders), Emmanuel Jalai (Durban City), Corbin Mthunzi (Ipswich Town), Munashe Garananga (Hibernian), Gerald Takwara (Al Itihad Misurata), Isheanesu Mauchi (Chippa United), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Shane Maroodza (FK Sarajevo)

Midfielders:

Bill Antonio (KV Mechelen), Sean Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday), Marvelous Nakamba (Sheffield Wednesday), Jonah Fabisch (FC Erzgebirge Aue), Panashe Makwiramiti (Haverfordwest), Prosper Padera (SJK Seinäjoki)

Forwards:

Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Daniel Musendami (Orlando Pirates), Prince Dube (Young Africans), Macauley Bonne (Billericay Town), Thando Ngwenya (AmaZulu)