FC Platinum denies match-fixing allegations following shocking defeat

FC Platinum has officially denied reports that it suspended five first-team players amid match-fixing allegations. The rumors surfaced after the team suffered a stunning 2-5 defeat to Scottland FC last Saturday at Mandava Stadium, their first loss of the season.

The defeat was highly unusual for the Zvishavane-based side, which had a formidable defense this season. Prior to the match, FC Platinum had conceded a mere eight goals in 22 games, five fewer than any other team in the league. However, their defense appeared uncharacteristically shaky against Scottland FC, a team that had not scored five goals in a single game all season.

MORE NEWS FROM WAMPIRA

A particularly questionable moment came with the third goal, which put Scottland FC up 3-1. Goalkeeper David Bizabane made a critical error, passing the ball directly to Scottland’s Tymone Machope, who easily scored into an empty net. After the game, coach Norman Mapeza hinted at foul play, telling reporters, “I am afraid to talk about it, but today, there is something that has happened. I will not talk about it.”

The Club’s Response and Player Denials

Following the circulating rumors, FC Platinum’s media department released a statement on Tuesday night. The club acknowledged the “recent reports” and “unsubstantiated allegations” but firmly denied the suspensions. The statement emphasized that the club “operates with integrity and adheres strictly to all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.”

“We view these allegations with the seriousness they deserve and are currently reviewing all options available to address this matter appropriately,” the statement read. The club urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified information, stating that it could damage the reputation of its stakeholders.

The reports had specifically named one of the defenders, Thando Ndhlovu, as allegedly admitting he was asked about the probable starting lineup, but the goalkeeper, Bizabane, has since denied any involvement in wrongdoing.

Three Malawian players—defender Nickson Nyasulu, forward Vincent Nyangulu, and midfielder Precious Phiri—are regular starters for FC Platinum and were involved in the controversial game.

• Nickson Nyasulu, a key figure in the defense, played the entire 90 minutes.
• Vincent Nyangulu was substituted in the 58th minute, shortly after the team conceded the third goal.
• Precious Phiri was left on the bench for the entire match.

The unexpected victory moved Scottland FC into second place with 46 points, just one point behind league leaders Simba Bhora. Meanwhile, the loss dropped FC Platinum to fourth place with 40 points after 23 games.