Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
THE Zifa Southern Region Division One 2025 League is set to provide fans with an exciting season as some of the most experienced and tactically astute minds in Zimbabwean football go head-to-head.
The upcoming campaign promises to be a thrilling spectacle, especially with a strong line-up of coaches, all eager to lead their teams to glory.
Among the most anticipated match-ups will be the encounters between Philani “Beefy” Ncube, Thulani “Thuts” Sibanda, Rodwell Dhlakama and Maxwell Takaendesa Jongwe.
Each of these highly regarded coaches brings a unique tactical approach and a wealth of experience to the table.
Ncube left Arenel to take on the coaching role at Zimbabwe Saints. Known for his methodical approach, Ncube will be looking to restore the club’s former glory and make an immediate impact.
Sibanda is set to take over at Bulawayo City, having left Bulawayo Chiefs last season, and Dhlakama, with Hwange, remains a key figure in the league.
The experienced tactician is determined to return Hwange to the top-flight league after their relegation last season.
Jongwe, a former Zifa technical director, will be with Bulawayo Chiefs. With a squad bolstered by seasoned players such as Kelvin Madzongwe and Arthur Musiiwa, Jongwe is poised to make a strong push for the title.
As the season resumes in the first week of April, there is growing optimism about the league’s competitiveness.
Blessing Mbwanda, the league’s spokesperson, expressed excitement over the season’s prospects.
Mbwanda confirmed that final preparations are in place, and negotiations with potential sponsors are ongoing.
“Something big is coming through. Our preparations for the season are well on course, and we are looking forward to an exciting season of football,” said Mbwanda.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent years.
Traditionally, teams relegated from the Premier League were favourites to bounce back, but this time, the field is wide open.
Arenel, Bulawayo Chiefs and Hwange—all former Premier League teams—are joined by a strong mix of Division One stalwarts such as Casmyn, Nkayi United and Zimbabwe Saints.
However, Arenel is facing internal challenges, including player incentives and uncertainty surrounding the team’s participation in the season.
Meanwhile, Casmyn, based in Turk Mine (Bubi District), will look to build on their top-three finish from last season. Their strong, physically imposing players and solid squad depth make them serious contenders for promotion. — @innocentskizoe.
Bongani Ndlovu