Online Reporter
Tadious Manyepo
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE music giant Alick Macheso is never divorced from football.
The Orchestra Mberikwazvo frontman almost always chants the names of the biggest three teams in the country Dynamos, Highlanders and CAPS United during live shows.
Often, he plays as a goalkeeper for the Zim Musicians team while one of his backing vocalists Elton Muropa actually swapped the football pitch for a music stage just when he was about to graduate into the Darryn T senior team in the ‘90s.
And it’s only fitting that the biggest musical band in the country will spice up the biggest football story of the season when Scottland get crowned at Ascot Stadium tomorrow.
Scottland have rewritten history after becoming the first team to win the Premiership in their debut season in 41 years.
The last and only team to have done that in independent Zimbabwe was Black Rhinos who lifted the trophy in 1984.
But the Mabvuku team, powered by a deliberate plan and massive investment by the owner Pedzai “Scott” Sakupwanya equalled the record in style, wrapping up the title with two games to spare.
And they will now be crowned by the league’s principal sponsors, Delta Beverages with the soundtracks provided by a storied colossal of Zimbabwe music.
In a statement, Delta Beverages said: “We are pleased to announce the official trophy handover ceremony for the 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, season champions, Scottland Football Club, set to take place on the 22nd of November 2025 at Ascot Stadium in Gweru.
“This year’s championship marks a remarkable milestone in Zimbabwean football history. Scottland FC has become the first newly promoted team to win the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title in their debut season—a feat last achieved in 1984, when Black Rhinos Football Club accomplished the same extraordinary milestone.
“Their victory signifies not only exceptional talent and determination but also a refreshing new chapter in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League’s competitive landscape.
“The trophy presentation will celebrate Scottland Football Club ’s outstanding achievement and honour the players, coaching staff and supporters who contributed to this historic win.
“Adding to the excitement renowned performer Aleck Macheso will provide live entertainment, ensuring a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere.”
Tomorrow’s ceremony will celebrate a lot with coach Tonderai Ndiraya becoming the first ever gaffer to win the league title in successive seasons with different clubs having clipped the championship with Simba Bhora last year.
Several players who he coached at Simba Bhora like Walter Musona, Tichaona Chipunza, Vasilli Kawe, Mtokhozisi Msebe, Tymon Machope and goalkeeper Talbert Shumba among others will also receive their second gold in consecutive years.
It will be goalkeeper Nelson Chadya and defender Gareth Madhake’s second league crown in three years, the duo having won the 2023 championship with Ngezi Platinum Stars.
And it will be the first time Warriors players Khama Billiat, Knowledge Musona and Terrence Dzvukamanja would get a winners’ medal in the domestic league.
