Peter Ndlovu tipped to replace Norman Mapeza at Scottland FC

Former Warriors captain and Mamelod Sundowns striker Peter Ndlovu is reportedly set to take charge of Zimbabwean defending champions Scottland FC on an interim basis following the sacking of Norman Mapeza.

According to reports coming from Zimbabwe, Scottland are turning to Ndlovu, who previously served as the club’s team manager, to steady the team for the remainder of the 2026 season.

The reported move comes after Mapeza was dismissed following Scottland’s elimination from the CAF Champions League, with the club’s hierarchy moving to address the situation ahead of the remaining domestic fixtures.

A source familiar with developments at the club told Fanzone that Ndlovu would oversee the team temporarily while Scottland search for a permanent head coach ahead of next season.

“As you know, Norman Mapeza was sacked last night, it’s now in the public domain. The position is that Peter Ndlovu will take over on a temporary basis until the end of the season,” the source said.

Scottland have not been confirmed as having formally announced Ndlovu’s appointment.

Scottland turn to Ndlovu after Mapeza’s exit

Mapeza’s departure followed Scottland’s 3-0 second-leg defeat to Angolan giants Petro de Luanda. The Zimbabwean champions had taken a 2-0 advantage from the first leg but lost the tie 3-2 on aggregate, ending their continental campaign.

A meeting of the club’s hierarchy after the team returned from Angola reportedly resulted in the decision to part ways with Mapeza with immediate effect.

The defending champions must now regroup as they continue their Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League campaign. Scottland have been trailing league leaders Hardrock FC by eight points, although they have two games in hand.

Ndlovu’s reported interim role would give him the responsibility of guiding the team through the remainder of the season while the club considers its long-term coaching options.

Ndlovu’s football legacy

Ndlovu is one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable football figures, having captained the national team, the Warriors, and enjoyed a distinguished playing career in England.

He made his name at Coventry City, where he became the first African player to score a Premier League hat-trick, achieving the feat against Liverpool in 1995.

His playing career also included spells at Birmingham City and Sheffield United, among other clubs.

Ndlovu later moved into football administration and management, including his role at Scottland.

If confirmed, his reported appointment would mark a significant new chapter in his involvement with the club as they seek to recover from their continental disappointment and finish the domestic season strongly.