Simba Bhora Football Club has confirmed the departure of head coach Joel Luphahla, bringing to a close a transformative tenure that saw the Shamva-based side exceed expectations by finishing third in the 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL). The announcement, made through an official club statement on Tuesday, outlined that both parties had mutually agreed to part ways, with Luphahla set to leave the club on 31 December 2025.
“Simba Bhora Football Club and the Head Coach Joel Luphahla have reached a consensus and agreed to mutually part ways, effective 31 December 2025,” the statement read.
Luphahla’s tenure at Simba Bhora was widely regarded as a period of rebuilding and renewal. He took charge at a time when the club was facing considerable uncertainty, following the exit of key players and several members of the technical team. His arrival marked a turning point for a side that had been struggling to find stability, both on and off the pitch.
“The coach joined the club at a time when all hope seemed lost, with key players and the technical staff having moved to other clubs. He assembled a new team altogether that was a force to reckon with and went on to finish third in the 2025 Castle Premier Soccer League,” the club highlighted.
Under Luphahla’s leadership, Simba Bhora not only rebuilt its squad but also instilled a renewed sense of belief within the club. His approach combined tactical discipline, player development, and motivational leadership, earning the admiration of both players and management. The coach’s ability to integrate new signings and nurture homegrown talent was seen as a key factor in the club’s remarkable performance in the league.
The club paid tribute to Luphahla’s professionalism and dedication, noting that these qualities had endeared him to supporters and the club’s executive leadership alike. “The coach exhibited great qualities of professionalism and dedication to his work, which subsequently caught the hearts of many supporters, executive members, and the board, who fell in love with Coach Joel. His bond and the relationship with the players were truly remarkable,” the statement read.
Simba Bhora FC announce departure of head coach Joel Luphahla
Simba Bhora also recognised the positive impact Luphahla had on fans who had been anxious about the club’s prospects at the start of the 2025 season. Many supporters, disheartened by the departure of key players, found renewed hope under his guidance. Luphahla’s ability to galvanise both the squad and the fan base was credited with creating a sense of unity and optimism around the club.
“We would like to take this opportunity to publicly appreciate Coach Joel, not only for his professionalism and hard work but also for putting a smile on many Simba Bhora FC supporters who were in despair at the beginning of the 2025 season,” the club said.
Throughout his tenure, Luphahla earned a reputation as a leader who prioritised discipline, teamwork, and strategic planning. His methods were seen as forward-thinking, and his commitment to ensuring that the club remained competitive despite limited resources was widely praised. Players lauded his hands-on approach, describing him as a coach who could motivate and challenge them to perform at their best.
The club’s board and executive expressed confidence that Luphahla’s departure, while significant, would not diminish the foundations he had helped establish. His influence on the team’s culture, training standards, and tactical awareness is expected to leave a lasting legacy for both the players and his successor.
Simba Bhora’s statement concluded with well-wishes for the coach’s future, acknowledging his contribution to the club and expressing hope for continued success in his coaching career. “The Simba Bhora family wishes Coach Joel a brighter future in his coaching career. His impact at the club will not be forgotten, and we remain grateful for the hard work and passion he dedicated to the team,” it added.
As Luphahla prepares to exit at the end of December, attention now turns to the club’s plans for the upcoming season and the appointment of a new head coach. While the club has yet to announce his successor, Simba Bhora’s leadership emphasised that the transition would be managed carefully, ensuring continuity and stability for the squad.
Luphahla’s departure marks the end of a memorable chapter in Simba Bhora’s history—a period characterised by resilience, strategic rebuilding, and an unexpected challenge to the established order in Zimbabwean football. Fans and stakeholders alike will remember the 2025 season as one of revival and hope, largely shaped by his leadership and unwavering commitment to the club.
Source- Herald
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