Zimbabwe will not field a team in the 2025–26 CAF Confederation Cup after Ngezi Platinum Stars turned down an offer to participate, citing time, financial, and logistical constraints.
The decision leaves Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Simba Bhora as the country’s only representative in CAF inter-club competitions this season.
The opportunity arose after Dynamos FC, winners of the 2024 Chibuku Super Cup, withdrew from the Confederation Cup citing financial challenges.
Ngezi Platinum Stars, who finished as runners-up in the same competition, were next in line according to CAF regulations and were invited by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) to fill the vacant spot.
Despite having prior experience in continental tournaments, Ngezi opted out. Club president Wadzanayi Mutsakanyi said the club had thoroughly evaluated the proposal but concluded they could not commit to the campaign on short notice.
“This decision was not made lightly. After consultations with key stakeholders and a review of the financial, logistical, and sporting demands, we regretfully had to decline the offer,” Mutsakanyi said. “We remain committed to future regional and international competitions aligned with our long-term goals.”
ZIFA confirmed that Ngezi informed them ahead of the CAF submission deadline, allowing the Confederation to reassign the spot if necessary. The initial submission cut-off was June 30, though CAF has extended the deadline to July 31 for clubs impacted by the upcoming CHAN tournament in August.
Dynamos’ withdrawal came seven months after winning the Chibuku Super Cup, with insiders pointing to the club’s past disappointments in the Confederation Cup and the financial demands involved as key factors in their decision.
Ngezi Platinum Declines CAF Confederation Cup Spot, Leaving Zimbabwe with One Continental Representative
CAF statutes specify that if a national cup winner cannot participate in the Confederation Cup, the runner-up may be selected, provided they meet eligibility requirements and timelines. In Zimbabwe’s case, Ngezi Platinum Stars were the only eligible alternative.
With no other club able to take up the spot, Zimbabwe will have only one team — Simba Bhora — competing in continental football this season. The Mashonaland West-based side will make their debut in the CAF Champions League.
CAF has set the registration window for the 2025–26 inter-club season from August 1 to August 31, with the first round of preliminary matches scheduled for September 19–21 and September 26–28. Teams that advance to the group stages will be allowed a second player registration phase in October.
Each team may register up to 40 players and field a matchday squad of 11 starters and nine substitutes, along with nine technical officials. A maximum of five substitutions is allowed per match.
With Simba Bhora carrying the national flag, Zimbabwean fans will have to wait until the next cycle to see a second representative in the Confederation Cup.
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