Chapungu, Herentals set for title showdown

Veronica Gwaze

Zimpapers Sports Hub

WHEN Chapungu Queens and Herentals collide, the entire league watches. Tomorrow’s top of the table showdown at Manyame Airbase isn’t just about three points, it could decide the Women’s Premiership title.

The match kicks off at 11 AM and promises fireworks. It pits the league leaders, Chapungu, against the reigning champions, Herentals, in a battle that could shift the momentum of the season.

This fixture has historically influenced the championship race, with the winner often gaining a crucial edge. Chapungu currently sit atop the table with 36 points, while Herentals trail closely with 34, tied with third placed Correctional Queens.

Both teams have shown impressive consistency this season. They’ve each suffered just one defeat, though Herentals’ loss came not on the field, but from a disciplinary penalty after their match against Kwekwe Queens failed to kick off.

Herentals coach Simbarashe Dedza understands the pressure his side faces. He knows they can’t afford any further slip ups if they want to retain their title for a fourth consecutive year.

“The three point loss dented our title defence. It’s a huge setback, which means we no longer have room for defeat this season,” Dedza said.

“Based on previous seasons, one loss might be manageable, but two makes the title race extremely difficult. We have to avoid that at all costs.”

The sustained dominance of Chapungu and Herentals has made this clash the marquee fixture of the season. A win for either side not only shifts the standings but sends a clear message to their rivals.

Correctional Queens, who’ve quietly remained in the mix, could benefit from any stumble. They’re also in action this weekend, hosting Harare City at Waghadhugu today.

Harare City have had an erratic campaign. With just 15 points from 12 games, they sit 10th and have struggled to find consistent form.

Meanwhile, league newcomers Red Buffalos continue to sink deeper. Rooted to the bottom of the table with zero points from 12 matches, they’ve conceded 96 goals, arguably the worst defensive record in the past decade, and have scored just four.

They face Highlanders Royals this weekend, still hoping to earn their first points of the season.

“Our season has not been what we wished for, especially in terms of finances,” said club chair Evermore Matinyarare.

“These results reflect our situation. Our coffers are dry. We can’t afford anything, and that’s obviously affecting the players.”

To make it through match day, players often bring their own food, typically sadza and relish, as the club can’t provide meals or refreshments.

“Our girls are very young, and you can see that emotionally, the situation is really affecting them,” Matinyarare added.

“All the excitement they had when we got promoted has vanished. We just hope to complete the season.”

Just above Red Buffalos are Black Mambas and Cranborne Royals with three and five points respectively.

Saturday Fixtures

Faith Drive vs Black Rhinos (Chisamba Grounds)

Red Buffalos vs Highlanders Royals (Bulawayo Chiefs Village)

Chapungu Queens vs Herentals (Manyame Airbase)

Correctional Queens vs Harare City (Wagadhugu)