Division One promotion race heats up

All coaches in Zimbabwe’s domestic football must be holders of approved and valid qualifications for them to execute their duties in the Premiership and lower division leagues

Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub

ZIFA Southern Region Division One football returns on Wednesday with a full midweek fixture list, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as the promotion race tightens.

The spotlight will fall on the three leading contenders, Nkayi United, Bulawayo Chiefs and Hwange, who all face tough assignments that could reshape the table.

Nkayi United, sitting top with 53 points from 23 matches, will defend their lead when they welcome Nust FC to White City Stadium.

The log leaders are under no illusions, with Nust having developed a reputation for upsetting favourites this season.
Second placed Bulawayo Chiefs, two points adrift on 51, head to Llewellyn Barracks for a clash with a spirited Imbizo side.

Chiefs know a slip could give Nkayi breathing space at the summit.
Hwange, in third with 46 points, return to their fortress at the Colliery for a test against Bosso 90, a youthful side that relishes taking on big names.

Chipangano will be banking on home advantage to cut the gap on the leaders.
Coach Njabulo Ncube urged the Hwange faithful to keep the faith ahead of the run in. “I would like everyone to stay positive, we will get there,” he said.

Fixtures
Today
Imbizo v Bulawayo Chiefs (Llewellyn)

Nkayi United v Nust FC (White City)

Eagle Life v Talen Vision (Raylton)

Casmyn v Bulawayo Warriors (TurkMine)

Vic Falls City Herentals v Bulawayo City (Chinotimba)

Hwange v Bosso 90 (Hwange Colliery)

Thursday

Mainline v Zebra Revolution (Dingumuzi)

Jordan FC v Megawatt