Fireworks expected as Central Region kicks off

AFTER two false starts, the Central Region Soccer League will finally take off on Friday with a potentially explosive clash between Chapungu and Blanket Mine at Ascot Stadium headlining the fixtures.

The league was supposed to have started in mid-March but was pushed ahead by a further two weeks due to delays in player registration.

Last week, the league once again failed to kick off; however, this time around, there is no going back.
The stage is set for a gruelling battle for promotion into the Premier Soccer League (PSL) for all 18 teams.

And what a way to start the campaign!
Blanket Mine have been one of the busiest sides during the pre-season, together with Kwekwe United, have emerged as the frontrunner for the ticket to the top flight.

The Gwanda outfit have assembled a very strong side coached by a seasoned coach in Luke Petros.
But on Friday, they face a stern test when they visit former premiership side Chapungu.

The Air Force of Zimbabwe side have been discreet about their preparations, a stratagem they hope can outwit opponents.

They are a side that has always maintained a high level of competitiveness in the league and are desperate to make a return to the Premier League since being relegated in 2019.

Chapungu coach Tererai Zinyowera is targeting nothing short of a victory in their opening match.
“Like any other coach, I would love to start the season with a win because the start normally defines and shapes the season,” he said.

“Blanket Mine are a very strong side with an experienced coach and they have a lot of good players; it is going to be a tough match.

“Chapungu is a big brand, our target is to gain promotion at the end of the season, when you look at the squad that we have, I’m confident that we will go all the way.”

Favourites, Kwekwe United, will have to wait a bit longer before they can showcase their new look after their match against MSU was postponed.

MSU will be participating in the ZUSA games in Bulawayo this coming weekend.
“The region hereby formally notifies all member clubs that the Week 1 and Week 2 fixtures involving MSU FC have been postponed,” reads a letter from the CRSL.

“This decision has been taken in accordance with the applicable competition rules and administrative provisions governing fixture adjustments, following MSU FC’s confirmed participation in the ZUSA Games scheduled from 3 to 7 April 2026 in Bulawayo.”

Elsewhere, Johannes Ngodzo coached Gwanda Pirates to get their campaign off with a relatively easier tie when they welcome FC Platinum U19 at Phelandaba Stadium in Gwanda.
Ezimnyama Ngenkani, as the Gwanda side is affectionately known, are among the teams expected to mount a serious challenge for promotion.

For the football lovers, exciting times are ahead, but for the players and coaches, it’s all work and no play.
Week One Fixtures:

Kwekwe United v MSU(Postponed), Chapungu v Blanket Mine, West Nicholson v Grain Tigers, Dulibadzimu v Shurugwi fc, Shabani v Super Strikers, Tongogara v Vhembe, Sabi v ZRP GWANDA, Good Morning v Matobo fc, Gwanda Pirates v FC Platinum U19.