By Tatiana Mhararira
FC Wangu Mazodze, a Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League Division One team, has sacked head coach George Magariro and two technical directors with immediate effect due to poor results in the first two league matches.
Magariro, who coached FC Wangu Mazodze during the 2023 Division One season, was rehired in January 2025 with expectations of elevating the team. However, the outcomes of a Pacific Storm sponsorship unveiling match and the first two league games disappointed the club’s owners.
FC Wangu Mazodze spokesperson Blessing Kwesha confirmed the decision to TellZim News, stating that Magariro failed to meet the board’s aspirations.
“We had high hopes for the three dismissed men, especially Magariro, who we worked with in 2023 when the team performed well until a draw with Renco Mine FC cost us Premier Soccer League promotion. This season started poorly, so we acted early to correct errors,” Kwesha said.
Kwesha explained that Magariro was dismissed for poor performance and non-compliance with team regulations.
“Magariro’s results were subpar. The team lost 2-0 in the inaugural Pacific match, which offered a US$2,000 prize. We drew 0-0 against Rusitu Tigers away and lost 2-0 to Buffaloes FC. We’ve yet to win, unlike last season when we were undefeated at home,” he said.
He added, “Team rules require the head coach and technical staff to submit a match report within 24 hours, detailing performance, successes, and challenges, win or lose. Magariro failed to submit these reports, prompting the board’s decision to fire him.”
Assistant coach Josiah Mandeya and goalkeepers’ coach Forward Pfumojena were also sacked. Emion Maganga, previously the team manager, has been appointed interim coach.
FC Wangu Mazodze’s next match is against Mutare City Rovers at Sakubva Stadium, a critical battle for points. Mazodze aims to revive their season, while Mutare City Rovers seek to maintain their winning streak and close the gap at the top.
Leading the Pacific Storm ERSL table is FC Hunters with 9 points and a goal difference of 7, coached by former FC Wangu Mazodze coach John Nyikadzino. Buffaloes FC follows with 9 points and a goal difference of 5, while JM Busha 54 FC sits last with zero points.
In PSL news, Triangle United FC sacked head coach Luke ‘Vahombe’ Masomere for poor results, becoming the first PSL team to fire a coach this season. He was replaced by Genesis Mangombe, formerly of Dynamos and Scotland FC, who was recently dismissed by Tobora United FC in Tanzania after a string of poor performances.
