PC: D&F MULTIMEDIA
By Kudakwashe Kutinyo
ZIMBABWE Football Association (ZIFA) Southern Region Division one league is set to kickoff this weekend following a late entry due to final arrangements of the setup.
The 2024 season will see 18 teams battle it out for topflight promotion and the new entries are Vic falls fc, Bulawayo City FC and the division two champions Zebra Revolution FC.
Football analyst Praise Dumi Dhlakama named a few teams to challenge for the maiden title and also added teams that could bring excitement in the Southern Region league.
"Definitely the race will be between ZRP Hwange who have been perennials in the league and they are well resources followed by Adachi who have made their intentions clear by recruiting a number of senior players".
"Most of the teams in Division one are there to develop talent and maintain status so we won't expect major surprises but I will also add Zimbabwe saints as the 3rd team for the title race since they have merged with CIWU".
"To add on teams such as Zebra Revolution FC, Bosso 90 and Bulawayo City FC play exciting football and could continue to the excitement of the league",said Mr Dhlakama.
Last year's southern region champions Arenel Movers FC made a fairytale run by playing the entire 2023 season without recording a single defeat as they attained promotion into the premier league.
Speaking during an interview former Mzilikazi FC coach Digital "Ten" Huni highlighted the expectations and adjustments that ZIFA needs to pay attention to this season.
"We need proper officiating from the officials, football teams have to pay players, zifa sourthen region should also find sponsors and introduce more cup games and this alone could viably bring good competition".
"I think Zpc hwange can challenge the title, they have been there and have quality seasoned players who played premier league.
Adachi have a good coach and players the likes of Tiwari who knows division one after guiding bcc into the premier league and lastly
Mainline they are ambitious they have a strong squad", said Fungai Huni.
Runners up Talen Vision begin their quest for glory against against Victoria falls based outfit Mosi Rovers. New comers 2023 division two champions Zebra Revolution FC begin their journey against Mainline FC.
Tipped to be favourites to challenge for promotion the Johannes Ngodzo led outfit Adachi FC will face Bosso 90 FC. Adachi also beefed up their squad by blending young with experienced seniors players which include Obidiah Tarumbwa and Thabani Goredema.
