Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande has officially bid farewell to FC Oden after guiding the Chinhoyi-based outfit to an impressive fourth-place finish in the MCM Estates Northern Region Soccer League.
The Northern Region Soccer League season concluded on Saturday, with Harare City FC clinching the title to secure promotion to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League [PSL].
Katsande, who took charge of Oden in July, confirmed his departure in a brief message following his final game in charge—a 3-1 victory over Cranborne Bullets.
Taking to social media to announce his exit, the former Zimbabwean international expressed gratitude to the club’s hierarchy, players, and supporters.
‘LAST DANCE WITH A SWEET VICTORY’ – KATSANDE
“Last dance with a sweet victory,” Katsande wrote on his official Facebook account on Sunday. “Special thanks to all Oden fans, football lovers, management, and players for the support. Huge gratitude to FC Oden president Mr Mtanga for the trust and support from day one.”
FC Oden marked Katsande’s third coaching stint in Zimbabwe since returning home to kickstart his management career at the start of the 2026 season.
He initially joined Northern Region side Rangers FC in March, but parted ways after just 54 days due to unpaid wages and sub-par living conditions.
In May, Katsande took the reins at Eastern Region Soccer League side Grand Legacy FC. However, he resigned under similar circumstances, citing technical interference in his duties.
He left Grand Legacy sitting fourth on the log with 35 points after 18 matches before taking over an Oden side that was floundering in ninth position after 21 fixtures. Katsande engineered a remarkable turnaround, driving the club into the top four of the 22-team division.
NEXT STEP FOR KATSANDE
The former Kaizer Chiefs and Sekhukhune United hard-man is currently working toward his advanced coaching credentials, with sights set on stepping up to top-flight management next season.
Indications suggest the 40-year-old could land a post in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League ahead of the 2027 campaign, having gained valuable experience across three Division One clubs.
For now, Katsande departs FC Oden with his head held high, leaving a strong foundation following an influential stint in Chinhoyi.
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