Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
BULAWAYO Chiefs coach John Nyikadzino, is staying calm and composed as his team edges closer to promotion, even as questions over striker Anesu Saiti’s registration threaten to overshadow their campaign.
Chiefs tightened their grip on the Zifa Southern Region Division One title race with a thumping 5-0 victory over Nust, on Saturday, stretching their lead to seven points with just four matches to play. Saiti struck twice in that game, underlining his importance to the club, but also drawing renewed attention to a dispute that could shape the championship outcome.
Rival clubs, Nkayi United and Hwange FC, have challenged Saiti’s eligibility, alleging that he featured for both Bulawayo City and Bulawayo Chiefs within the same half of the season, a potential breach of league regulations. The matter now rests with the Zifa disciplinary committee.
Nyikadzino, though, insists everything was done above board.
“All I know is at Chiefs we play players that are registered,” he said. “I’m impressed and excited with the way the team played. The boys really came to the party. The result is a big step toward our goal, which is to get promoted to the top flight league.”
That goal is now within sight. Hwange slipped to a 1-1 draw against Megawatt, while Nkayi United were held to a goalless stalemate by Casmyn, leaving Chiefs firmly in control on 67 points. Hwange trail on 63 and Nkayi on 60.
Even with the uncertainty surrounding Saiti’s case, there’s a sense of renewal and transition at Chiefs. The club has rebuilt under Nyikadzino, balancing experienced campaigners with a new generation of talent determined to restore Bulawayo’s presence in the top flight. Their recent performances have reflected a growing confidence, not distraction.
For Nyikadzino, the focus remains on the pitch, not the boardroom. The veteran coach, who has seen his fair share of league drama over the years, exudes belief that his players will finish what they’ve started.
“We are not looking at what’s happening elsewhere,” he said. “Our job is to win matches and let the rest take care of itself.”
Results
Zebra Revolution 2-0 Eagle Life, Casmyn 0-0 Nkayi United, Mainline 2-1 Bosso 90, Vic Falls City Herentals 1-0 Imbizo, Megawatt 1-1 Hwange, Nust 0-5 Bulawayo Chiefs, Ajax Hotspurs 0-3 Bulawayo Warriors, Jordan FC 1-0 BlackRock, Bulawayo City 0-0 Talen Vision.
