Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS will kick off their 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League campaign with a mouth-watering Bulawayo derby against Bulawayo Chiefs, before facing arch-rivals Dynamos a week later in the first instalment of the Battle of Zimbabwe.
The fixtures were confirmed ahead of the new season, which is set to begin on the weekend of March 6–8, 2026, promising an explosive start to the campaign. Bosso’s opening two matches will immediately test their title credentials, with the derby against Chiefs followed by a clash against Dynamos a fixture that traditionally draws massive interest from supporters across the country.
Reigning league champions Scottland will begin the defence of their title away to Hardrock on Matchday One, while Dynamos will travel to Gweru to face TelOne in their season opener. CAPS United will host Premiership newcomers Agama, who will be making their top-flight debut.
Other notable fixtures in the opening round include Manica Diamonds hosting Simba Bhora, a clash that is expected to draw attention given both sides’ ambitions for the upcoming season.
The 2026 domestic football calendar will officially get underway earlier with the Castle Challenge Cup on February 28, pitting league champions Scottland against Chibuku Super Cup holders Dynamos. League matches will then run until November 21, 2026, followed by the Soccer Stars Selection on November 24. The Chibuku Super Cup competition is scheduled to begin on the weekend of August 5, 2026, with the final set for November 28. The season will conclude with the Soccer Stars Awards Ceremony on December 4, 2026.
Match Day 1 fixtures
CAPS United v Agama, Herentals v Chicken Inn, Triangle v ZPC Kariba, Hardrock v Scotlland, Ngezi Platinum v FC Platinum, Manica Diamonds v Simba Bhora, FC Hunters v Mwos, Telone v Dynamos, Highlanders v Bulawayo Chiefs
