Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
BULAWAYO Chiefs head coach John Nyikadzino has sent a clear message to his players: stay grounded and keep your eyes on the prize. With only six games left in the Zifa Southern Region Division One season, Chiefs lead the pack but Nyikadzino knows there is no room for complacency.
Chiefs sit top of the log with 64 points, just ahead of Hwange on 59 and Nkayi United on 58. With only 18 points up for grabs, the title race has turned into a tense three-horse battle, and Chiefs are in the driver’s seat.
This Saturday, Chiefs face a must-win clash against Megawatt at the Bulawayo Chiefs Village. Meanwhile, rivals Hwange will be handed a walkover win as Ajax was expelled from the league, putting extra pressure on the log leaders to avoid any slip-ups.
Nyikadzino says the team is ready, but warns against underestimating Megawatt. “We did not play last week, which gave us time to recover physically and mentally. The schedule has been intense, so it was good to re-energise. Players carrying knocks had time to heal, and we’ve prepared well,” said Nyikadzino.
The coach knows every match from here on will be a test. “Everyone can see the finish line, and while that is motivating, we must not lose focus. Eighteen points is a lot, and we can’t assume anything.
Megawatt are a strong side with experienced players. They are no pushovers. As log leaders, every team will want to bring us down. We have a target on our backs.”
Chiefs are chasing a return to the Premier Soccer League after last season’s relegation and have built a squad capable of achieving it. Key players include former national team midfielder Kelvin Madzongwe, defenders Malvin Mkolo and Arthur Musiyiwa, and goalkeeper Matripples Muleya, who joined from TelOne.
With experience and depth on their side, expectations are high, but Nyikadzino insists the job is far from over. Fans will be watching closely as Chiefs aim to hold their nerve in the critical final stretch.
Fixtures
Saturday
Bulawayo Warriors v Zebra Revolution (Luveve Stadium), Talen Vision v Nust (Luveve Stadium 15:00), Blackrock v Vic Falls City Herentals (Cindrella), Eagle Life v Casmyn (Raylton), Imbizo v MainLine (Llewellin), Bulawayo Chiefs v Megawatt (Chiefs Village), Hwange v Ajax Hotspurs (cancelled)
Sunday
Bosso 90 v Jordan (White City Stadium 12:00), Nkayi United v Bulawayo City (White City Stadium 15:00)
