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Fungai Muderere, [email protected]

TELONE head coach Hebert Maruwa has challenged his players to better their last season’s performance.

Fondly known as Jampano, Maruwa has assembled what looks like a strong team that will give other clubs a good run for their money.

The Wifi Boys have blended in a mixture of experienced and youthful players signing a massive 17 players from different local clubs.

“In terms of our preparations for the season, so far so good. The team is coming up. I think the only thing that the team needs to do is to improve from where we left last season. In the previous season we finished 10th as such we will need to go a gear up. We are targeting a top-eight finish, and with the new signings, I believe we have a solid foundation to build on,” said Maruwa

He added: “We have a balanced team and with the right combinations I think we can achieve what we want. Our fans should come in their numbers and rally behind the team. It’s a collective effort.” 

The Wifi boys snapped up former Dynamos captain Frank Makarati and Ngezi Platinum Stars’ midfielder Bruno Mtigo.

Also on board is ex-Bulawayo Chiefs striker Farau Matare, Gerald Bero and striker Tawanda Macheke from Manica Diamonds among other gifted players. 

“We made a remarkable comeback last season, and I believe the same determination will carry us through this season. We have strengthened the squad, and with the addition of experienced players like Makarati and Mtigo, we are ready to compete,” said Maruwa.

TelOne FC, who were facing relegation mid-season, secured the services of Maruwa after the sacking of Tendai Chikuni.

His arrival marked a turning point, as he managed to steer the team away from the drop zone and guide them to safety.

The 2025 season is set to kick off with the Castle Challenge Cup, featuring Dynamos, the Chibuku Super Cup winners and Simba Bhora, the league champions, on Saturday, followed by the start of league games tentatively on March 1.

Meawhile, young midfield dynamo Elshaamar Farasi has secured a permanent deal at Chicken Inn.

Last season, Farasi was at Gamecocks on one year loan from ex Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) side Bulawayo City. 

“Farasi (Elshaamar) has secured a permanent move to Chicken Inn. Bulawayo City and Chicken Inn recently agreed to the deal,” said a source within the Gamecocks corridors. 

List of TelOne new signings 

 Frank Makarati (Dynamos),  Leroy Murape (ZPC Kariba), Tawanda Macheke (Manica Diamonds),  Bruno Mtigo (Ngezi Platinum), Farau Matare (Bulawayo Chiefs),  Tapiwa Chilenga (Green Fuel), Phineas Chigulupati (Simba Bhora),  Nigel Makumbe (Ngezi Platinum), Gerald Bero (Manica Diamonds), Prince Milanzi (Bikita Minerals),  Tafadzwa Marira (Harare City), Panashe Mutasa (Manica Diamonds), Milton Chimedza (Herentals), Kuda Nyadudangwa (Black Rhinos), Simba Takaedza (FC Porto Academy),  Calvin Chigara (FC Porto Academy),  Prince Magondo (Black Rhinos) -@FungaiMuderere