The 2026 Central Region Soccer League got a sudden reprieve, with the delayed start now set for the 28th of March, giving clubs more time to sort out registration and affiliation fees amidst waterlogged stadiums.
A number of clubs are still struggling to pay their annual affiliation fees and have faced massive challenges registering players. The league was set to kick off on 14 March, but the postponement is a blessing in disguise given the deplorable state of stadiums due to heavy rains.
At PSL level, Ascot Stadium, used by Central Region teams, failed to host TelOne vs Dynamos on Saturday due to waterlogging, and the match was played on Sunday under similar circumstances. Other stadiums like Baobab, Gibbo, and Rufaro also showed poor drainage.
WHAT THE CENTRAL REGION LEADERSHIP SAID
Central Region Soccer League Chairman Patrick Hill. Picture by Fanzone
Central Region chairman Patrick Hill says the league will start on the 28th of March after registration is complete, hoping clubs will have paid fees. The delay saves them from embrassement as stadiums like Maglas, MSU Grounds, Dulibadzimu, and Phelandaba are also in bad state after the rainfall.
“The league commencement will be delayed maybe by another week or two. We’re still trying to ensure that all the clubs register all their players. Of course there is a hiccup with the registration system in Harare.
“I think it’s almost all the regions and the provinces are trying to register their players. Because the plan for this year, in 2026, is that there will be no player who will play football without a license that has been issued at national level,” Hill told Fanzone.
CENTRAL REGION MATCHDAY ONE FIXTURES
Chapungu FC vs s Blanket Mine FC
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
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