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Southern Region loses 3 teams
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The curtain closed on the 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) season with dramatic relegation battles and a historic moment in Zimbabwean football. Hwange and Bulawayo Chiefs were relegated on the final day, joining Arenel Movers in the ZIFA Southern Region Soccer League next season.
Meanwhile, an all-female team of match officials officiated a PSL match for the first time, marking a milestone in Zimbabwean football.
Relegation Drama
Bulawayo Chiefs suffered a 2-1 defeat against Manica Diamonds at Sakubva Stadium, a result that sealed their relegation despite taking the lead through a 62nd-minute penalty by Migoz Svinurai. Manica Diamonds responded with two late goals, an 82nd-minute penalty from Evans Katema and a winner by Michael Tapera two minutes later.
Chiefs coach Thulani Sibanda expressed disappointment after the match, hinting at officiating challenges. "We did our best as a team and managed to take the lead. There are things we cannot control," he said.
At Wadzanai Stadium, Hwange's 2-0 loss to Bikita Minerals confirmed their drop to the lower league. Bikita's survival was secured through goals by Tinashe Ruzive and Barnabas Mtuche.
Arenel Movers, already relegated before the final matchday, drew 0-0 with Chegutu Pirates at Luveve Stadium, concluding a challenging season for both sides.
GreenFuel's Perfect Home Record
At the GreenFuel Arena, the hosts completed their season unbeaten at home with a 2-1 victory over Dynamos. Goals from Donald Ngoma and Chris Ngwende ensured GreenFuel's dominance at Chisumbanje.
Dynamos assistant coach Joel Luphahla remained optimistic despite the defeat, focusing on their upcoming Chibuku Super Cup final. "The boys played well, and we'll take positives into our biggest game of the season," he said.
The relegation of three teams, including Bulawayo Chiefs and Hwange, reshapes the 2025 ZIFA Southern Region Soccer League. Meanwhile, the PSL's embrace of diversity with all-female referees signals progress in promoting gender equality in Zimbabwean football.
As the season ends, the focus shifts to the Chibuku Super Cup final and preparations for the 2026 PSL campaign.
Meanwhile, an all-female team of match officials officiated a PSL match for the first time, marking a milestone in Zimbabwean football.
Relegation Drama
Bulawayo Chiefs suffered a 2-1 defeat against Manica Diamonds at Sakubva Stadium, a result that sealed their relegation despite taking the lead through a 62nd-minute penalty by Migoz Svinurai. Manica Diamonds responded with two late goals, an 82nd-minute penalty from Evans Katema and a winner by Michael Tapera two minutes later.
Chiefs coach Thulani Sibanda expressed disappointment after the match, hinting at officiating challenges. "We did our best as a team and managed to take the lead. There are things we cannot control," he said.
At Wadzanai Stadium, Hwange's 2-0 loss to Bikita Minerals confirmed their drop to the lower league. Bikita's survival was secured through goals by Tinashe Ruzive and Barnabas Mtuche.
Arenel Movers, already relegated before the final matchday, drew 0-0 with Chegutu Pirates at Luveve Stadium, concluding a challenging season for both sides.
GreenFuel's Perfect Home Record
At the GreenFuel Arena, the hosts completed their season unbeaten at home with a 2-1 victory over Dynamos. Goals from Donald Ngoma and Chris Ngwende ensured GreenFuel's dominance at Chisumbanje.
Dynamos assistant coach Joel Luphahla remained optimistic despite the defeat, focusing on their upcoming Chibuku Super Cup final. "The boys played well, and we'll take positives into our biggest game of the season," he said.
The relegation of three teams, including Bulawayo Chiefs and Hwange, reshapes the 2025 ZIFA Southern Region Soccer League. Meanwhile, the PSL's embrace of diversity with all-female referees signals progress in promoting gender equality in Zimbabwean football.
As the season ends, the focus shifts to the Chibuku Super Cup final and preparations for the 2026 PSL campaign.
Source - Sunday Mail
