Hwange and Bulawayo Chiefs have joined Arenel and Chegutu Pirates as the four teams relegated from the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
Bulawayo Chiefs, who earned promotion to the top-flight league in 2017, concluded their season with a 2-1 defeat against Manica Diamonds, leaving them in 15th place.
Despite beginning the match just above the relegation zone, their fate was sealed by Bikita Minerals’ critical 2-0 victory over Hwange.
Bikita climbed to 14th on the table with their win, while Hwange, needing nothing less than a victory to secure their safety, fell short and joined the relegated sides.
The relegation of Bulawayo Chiefs is a poignant moment for Zimbabwean football.
Known as “The Ninjas,” the club was not just a team on the pitch but a trailblazer off it.
Despite having a relatively small fan base, Chiefs revolutionised how clubs approached social media and branding.
They set a benchmark for professional digital engagement, proving that online presence could be just as powerful as on-the-ground support.
Their innovative strategies included establishing a sports shop and successfully selling merchandise, an achievement previously rare in local football.
These efforts highlighted the untapped potential of commercialising football through effective branding and digital outreach.
As we bid farewell to Bulawayo Chiefs from the top flight, it’s hard not to feel a profound sense of loss.
Their relegation is a sobering reminder that even pioneers of change are not immune to the unforgiving nature of football.
Chiefs may no longer be in the Premier League, but their legacy of innovation and resilience will continue to inspire clubs across Zimbabwe for years to come.
Castle Lager Premiership Matchday 34 Results:
Bikita Minerals 2-0 Hwange
ZPC Kariba 1-0 Simba Bhora
Manica Diamonds 2-1 Bulawayo Chiefs
Greenfuel 2-1 Dynamos
FC Platinum 0-0 TelOne
Herentals 0-0 Chicken Inn
Arenel 0-0 Chegutu Pirates
Sunday
Caps United 1-3 Ngezi Platinum
Highlanders 1-1 Yadah
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