HARARE – Simba Bhora coach Joel ‘Dubai’ Luphahla is set to deputise for Orlando Pirates developmental side coach Simon Marange at the upcoming COSAFA Championship, scheduled for 4 to 15 June in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
Luphahla’s appointment comes as recognition of his strong performance in the domestic league with last season’s champions, Simba Bhora who are emerging as title contenders again in 2025.
After 13 matches, the Shamva-based side sits second on the log with 25 points, just two behind current leaders MWOS.
Simba have found the back of the net 16 times this season, including a 3-1 victory over CAPS United this past weekend.
In the COSAFA setup, Marange will serve as head coach, while Luphahla takes on the assistant role.
Marange previously guided the Young Warriors (U-20) to the final of last year’s COSAFA Youth Championship.
COSAFA CUP SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS
Martin Mapisa (MVWOS) – Vice Captain
Joseph Kaunda (Manica Diamonds)
Tatenda Chikohwero (Ngezi Platinum)
DEFENDERS
Tashinga Mashonganyika (Ngezi Platinum)
Allan Chapinduka (TelOne FC)
Simbarashe Takaedza (TelOne FC)
Andrew Mbeba
(Highlanders) – Captain
Arter Kaseke (Ngezi
Platinum)
Kurainashe Musanhi
(Crystal Palace)
MIDFIELDERS
Prosper Padera (SJK Seinajoki, Finland)
Menzi Mazwi (Birmingham City, England)
Vusa Ngwenya (Dynamos)
Junior Makunike (Simba Bhora)
Nisbert Muzenda (Ngezi Platinum)
Prince Ndlovu (Highlanders)
Kennedy Mupomba (Chelmsford FC, England)
Calvin Chigara (TelOne FC)
FORWARDS
Tinotenda Meke (Simba Bhora)
Mafios Chiweta (Highlanders)
Tanaka Munemo (Ngezi Platinum)
Thando Ngwenya (FC Platinum)
Tanaka Cherera (Bury FC, England)
Denzel Mapuwa (Green Fuel)
COACHES
Head Coach: Simon Marange
Assistant: Joel Lupahla
Goalkeeper Coach: Chenjerai Dube
Fitness Coach: Jimmy Tigere
Analyst: Tatenda Munyaradzi
Doctor: Nyasha Banga
Physiotherapist: Anotidaishe Dube
