adminBlessing Malinganiza
PREMIER Soccer League chairman, Farai Jere, is optimistic fans will flock to watch the Chibuku Super Cup tournament.
The issue of low attendance figures, in domestic league matches, has been a talking point.
“We anticipate a thrilling tournament this year,” Jere said at the draw in Harare yesterday.
“We are confident that football fans will attend the matches in their numbers.
“As we begin preparations for the tournament, I would like to encourage our teams to bring out their best, to adhere to the rules and regulations of the tournament and most importantly, to enjoy the game.
“This tournament not only brings exciting matches to football lovers around the country, but it also provides the opportunity for players to show off their skills and for teams to test themselves against each other.”
He added:
“The tournament has been a great success, since its return in 2014.
“It is an achievement for us to reach this milestone, eight years of growing and developing this wonderful game across Zimbabwe.
“As PSL, we are honoured and proud of the work that has been accomplished through this sponsorship.
“Through our partnership with Delta Beverages, we have managed to build a strong brand in the Chibuku Super Cup, which continuously attracts fans across the country, both on television and at stadia.
“The last edition at Mandava Stadium, the environment was quite electric.
“This we believe is the heart of this partnership, connecting Chibuku Super to thousands of passionate football fans, while the PSL continues to grow as a commercial brand.
“We once experienced an unbranded league, and it’s quite painful.”
The 2022 Chibuku Super Cup is returning in a knockout format, with the preliminary and first-round draws being conducted in Harare yesterday.
Last year the Chibuku Super Cup was played in a mini-league format.
The tourney was used to ease teams into the resumption of the top-flight league, after a lengthy absence caused by the Covid-19 suspension of gatherings, including sport.
The draw was based on the PSL table, as of Matchday 17, with the current top eight sides being seeded and paired with teams placed ninth to 14th, as well as winners of the preliminary round.
The four bottom teams on the league table will begin their campaign in the preliminary stage from August 6.
Two teams will progress to the first-round, joining the other 14.
The final will be held on November 19.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter