Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THERE’S something about coming home that stirs the soul. For Bulawayo Chiefs, that home is now officially the Chiefs Village, and today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s pursuit of Premier Soccer League redemption.
After years of sharing Luveve Stadium, the Amakhosi Amahle will, for the first time, host their Zifa Southern Region Division One match at their own base in the heart of Bulawayo. Their opponents for the landmark occasion? Ajax Hotspurs Movers.
The club acquired the venue, formerly AmaZulu Sports Club, back in 2022. But it’s taken time, effort and negotiations to bring it up to league standard. Now, with the nod from Zifa Southern Region authorities, Chiefs finally plant their flag on home turf.
Club CEO Thulani “Javas” Sibanda, ever the passionate frontman, was buzzing with pride and anticipation ahead of today’s clash.
“I am excited to let you know that we have been officially granted permission to host our home games at our very own Chiefs Village,” he said. “These are exciting times for us, as it offers you a chance to cheer for the boys in our own backyard.
“Today is an important day, and I look forward to seeing a lot of you cheering from the home side terraces.
“We have replicas available for $15 and they will be sold at the Village alongside other merchandise. Please buy as many as you can afford, we need that support. Full bar and catering,” said Sibanda.
“Come and let’s exhibit great sporting attitude and behaviour, and we’ll show the world that we are Bulawayo Chiefs.
“The journey to PSL continues and so does our development and projects.”
Having been relegated from the topflight last season, Chiefs are eyeing an immediate return, and they’ve gone to work in the transfer market to make it happen.
Former Warriors anchorman Kelvin Madzongwe headlines a batch of seasoned recruits. He joins from Zebra Revolution, bringing grit and experience to the midfield. Also returning to familiar colours are Malvin Mkolo and Arthur Musiyiwa, both eager to relaunch their careers after quiet spells at Simba Bhora and Dynamos respectively.
The safe hands of Matripples Muleya are back between the sticks, the goalkeeper having signed from TelOne. Defensive steel comes in the form of Polite Mwenda and Gabriel Dlodlo, while firepower up front will be provided by Tatenda Ushe, who scored 15 goals in Division One last season.
Chiefs also raided Arenel Movers, bringing in Crispen Machisi, Brian Jaravaza and Zibusiso Dambo to deepen the squad.
On the technical bench, Bekithemba Ndlovu has taken charge following the resignation of Maxwell Takaendesa Jongwe. With the home base now secured and fresh faces on board, Chiefs are sending a clear message: the rebuild is real.
