ZIFA, fans condemn Dembare, Hardrock violence

The fallout from the abandoned Premier Soccer League clash between Hardrock FC and Dynamos FC at Chahwanda Stadium continues to intensify, with football authorities and supporters' organisations warning that the violent scenes risk reversing progress made in restoring confidence in Zimbabwean football.

What was expected to be one of the season's biggest fixtures instead descended into disorder on Sunday, forcing the match to be abandoned and triggering renewed scrutiny on stadium safety and crowd control.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has strongly condemned the violence, saying the sport must remain a safe and unifying space for all stakeholders.

"ZIFA strongly condemns all forms of violence, intimidation and disorder at football matches," the association said. "Football must remain a safe, family-friendly and unifying space for players, officials, supporters, partners and all stakeholders."

ZIFA said it supports the Premier Soccer League's decision to await full match reports before taking disciplinary action, stressing that due process must be followed.

"It is important that due process is followed and that those found responsible for any acts of misconduct face the appropriate sanctions," the association said, adding that "there is no place for violence in Zimbabwean football."

The association warned that ongoing efforts to rebuild public trust in local football remain fragile and must be protected by all stakeholders, including clubs and supporters.

"The progress being made to rebuild confidence in the national game must be protected by all who love football," ZIFA said, urging supporters to "back their teams with passion, pride and discipline."

The Zimbabwe Soccer Supporters Association (ZSSA) also weighed in, expressing concern over the violence and calling for improved behaviour and stronger security systems at stadiums.

ZSSA president Todd Dzvanga Juru said football should unite communities rather than endanger them.

"As an association, we are really concerned about what happened at Chahwanda and that is not tolerated at all," he said. "Football should be a unifier where friendship can be made and stars unveiled."

ZSSA general-secretary Rinos Rambi urged fans to embrace sportsmanship and reject hooliganism, warning that violence damages the image of the game.

"Football is a game that brings people together and violence and disorder damages the image of the sport," he said.

Committee member William Mahoko called for stronger ticketing systems and improved security arrangements, particularly for high-profile matches.

"Football is attended by people from different walks of life including juveniles and violence must not be tolerated at all costs," he said.

Authorities say investigations into the Chahwanda incident are ongoing, while calls continue to grow for reforms in stadium management and crowd control to prevent a repeat of Sunday's scenes.