Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zifa Southern Region Division One league is heading into its decisive phase, and all eyes are on Bulawayo Chiefs and their seasoned coach, John Nyikadzino. He’s a man widely regarded as a master of promotion campaigns, and the big question remains: can he repeat his past success and guide Chiefs back to the top-flight?
Nyikadzino’s track record speaks for itself. He led Chapungu FC into the Premier League in 2013 and steered them to the semi-finals of the 2015 Chibuku Super Cup. He followed that with successful campaigns at Nichrut FC in 2018 and Sheasham FC in 2022.
“This league is tough. It’s very competitive, and we are aware that we need to put in extra effort if we are to achieve our goal. Every game is a final now. Dropping points can be costly, and that’s something we cannot afford at this stage,” Nyikadzino said.
The Zifa Southern Region Division One title race is finely poised, with three teams tied on 41 points. Hwange leads the standings on goal difference but has played one more game than second-placed Bulawayo Chiefs and third-placed Nkayi United. In fourth place, Bulawayo Warriors trail with 32 points.
This afternoon, two critical matches could shake up the top of the table. Nkayi United will host Vic Falls City Herentals at White City Stadium, while Bulawayo Chiefs welcome Jordan FC at Chiefs Village. These fixtures come just two days after Hwange edged Black Rock 1–0 in their Matchday 22 fixture at Hwange Colliery Stadium.
Nyikadzino is now entrusted with the mission of restoring Bulawayo Chiefs to the elite league and is embracing the pressure.
“Our goal is very clear to win promotion and take this club back to the top-flight where it belongs. But to do that, we need to stay united as a team and fight for each other on and off the pitch. The players understand the expectations, and the technical team is working tirelessly.
“This is not about me, it’s about the club, the badge, and the supporters who want to see Bulawayo Chiefs back at the highest level,” he added. “I have done it before with other teams, but each challenge is different. What remains constant is the need for hard work, discipline, and belief,” he said.
The title race is wide open, and the margins are razor-thin. Nyikadzino understands that consistency will be key in the final stretch of the season.
“We respect every opponent. There are no small teams in this league. Anyone can beat anyone. We have to approach each match with the right mentality, be clinical in front of goal, and remain compact defensively.”
Fixtures
Today
Hwange v BlackRock (Hwange Colliery), Nkayi United v Vic Falls City Herentals (White City Stadium), Bosso 90 v Megawatt (White City B Arena), Eagle v Imbizo (Raylton), Nust v Zebra Revolution (Nust), Bulawayo Chiefs v Jordan (Chiefs Village), Talen Vision v Ajax Hotspurs (cancelled), Bulawayo Warriors v Mainline (White City Stadium)
Sunday
Bulawayo v Casmyn (Luveve Stadium)
