Fierce battles await as new D1 season begins

Takudzwa Chitsiga, Sports Hub Reporter

The stage is set for a thrilling return of the Zifa Division One Soccer League this weekend, with action-packed fixtures lined up across the country as teams jostle for supremacy in one of Zimbabwe’s most competitive football divisions.

Among the standout clashes, last season’s Eastern Region runners-up FC Wangu Mazodze will lock horns with Tenax, who finished third in a highly anticipated showdown at Mucheke Stadium. The match promises fireworks as both sides seek to establish early dominance in the league.

Confirming the season opener, Eastern Region chairman Wisdom Simba, expressed confidence in an intense and competitive campaign, especially with the arrival of ambitious newcomers like Tongogara United from Chipinge and Chivhu United, who are expected to bring fresh energy into the league.

“We have an exciting season ahead with strong teams in the mix. FC Wangu Mazodze narrowly missed out on promotion last year and Tenax kept pushing Triangle United all the way. With newly promoted sides eager to make their mark, we expect a fiercely contested league,” said Simba.

Meanwhile, in the Central Region, all eyes will be on the Zvishavane derby as Shabanie Mine reignites its long-standing rivalry with FC Platinum U-19 at Maglas Stadium. Known for drawing passionate crowds, this showdown is expected to bring the mining town to a standstill as the Chinda Boys seek to reassert their dominance over their youthful yet talented opponents.

ZRP Gwanda vs Hardrock (Phelandaba)

Dinson Mvuma vs James West (TBA)

With the Division One campaign now underway, clubs will be looking to make an early statement, setting the tone for what promises to be a pulsating season of football.

Eastern Region Fixtures:

Saturday:

FC Wangu Mazodze vs Tenax (Mucheke)

St Pauls Musami vs GZU (Rudhaka)

Sunday:

Manica Diamonds U-19 vs Risutu Tigers (Chisamba)

FC Hunters vs JM Busha 54 (Rudhaka)

Chivhu FC vs Buffaloes (Renco Mine)

Destiny Stars vs Maramba (Maramba)

Tongogara United vs Mutare City Rovers (Ratings)

Central Region Fixtures:

Saturday: