The 2026 ZIFA Central Region Soccer League is set to kick off on Saturday, with returnees Kwekwe United and ambitious side Gwanda Pirates taking centre stage.
As usual, the league is expected to be a thrilling ride as new challengers for the promotion ticket are expected to rise. Sheasham, who were notable for the last two seasons, are no longer in the mix having disbanded at the tail end of 2025.
Nevertheless, perennial contenders Chapungu FC, Tongogara FC, and Shabanie Mine are fancying their chances of a PSL berth.
For now, Gwanda Pirates and Kwekwe United have shown serious intent, having been busy on the market. Kwekwe United secured a decent sponsorship from Betterbrands, which will come with a bus and three cars for administrative purposes.
Moreso, they reinforced their team with experienced players like Sadney Urikhob, Ian Nyoni, Partson Jaure, and Valentine Kadonzvo. On the other hand, Pirates seem financially sound this time around. Venues for the matches are yet to be confirmed, but games kick off on the 28th of March.
Interestingly, the opening fixtures promise intense battles, including Chapungu FC vs Blanket Mine FC, West Nicholson FC vs Grain Tigers FC, and Shabanie Mine FC taking on newbies Super Strikers FC.
Tongogara FC will look to get the better of Vhembe Stars Academy FC, while other matches include Sabi Gold Mine FC vs ZRP Gwanda FC, Dulibadzimu United FC vs Shurugwi FC, and Gwanda Pirates FC vs FC Platinum U19. Kwekwe United FC faces MSU FC, and Good Morning FC takes on Matobo FC.
FIXTURES
West Nicholson FC vs Grain Tigers FC
Shabanie Mine FC vs Super Strikers FC
Tongogara FC vs Vhembe Stars Academy FC
Sabi Gold Mine FC vs ZRP Gwanda FC
Dulibadzimu United FC vs Shurugwi FC
Gwanda Pirates FC vs FC Platinum U19
Kwekwe United FC vs MSU FC
Good Morning FC vs Matobo FC
MSU FC vs West Nicholson FC
ENDS//
