Ngezi Platinum Stars, the reigning football champions of Zimbabwe, are facing a potentially severe financial challenge.
Former coach Benjani Mwaruwari has filed a claim with FIFA, seeking an astonishing US$1.6 million for what he claims was unfair dismissal.
This comes shortly after FIFA ordered the club to compensate former assistant coach Bongani Mafu nearly US$200,000, following a similar breach-of-contract case.
Mafu, who worked alongside Benjani at Ngezi Platinum Stars before both were dismissed a few months into their tenure, was awarded US$196,750 in compensation for what FIFA determined was an unjust termination of his contract.
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FIFA’s ruling on Mafu’s case was finalized on August 27, 2024, with the club being given until early September to appeal or face potential sanctions, including a two-year transfer ban stretching until 2026.
Insiders believe that the successful outcome of Mafu’s case could set a precedent for Benjani’s claim, making it more likely that he will win his case as well.