Gwanda Pirates set sights on Premier League

Gwanda Pirates 2025

By Kelvin Kutinyo

Central Region Division One outfit Gwanda Pirates have pledged to deliver top-flight football to the Matabeleland South region in their second season in the Division One league after a competitive first season.

Last season, the Gwanda Pirates finished third, behind rivals Sheasham and Hardrock FC, in a closely contested league.

With Sheasham and Hardrock FC absent this season, Gwanda Pirates stands a strong chance of promotion if they replicate last year’s performance and capitalize on the gap left by their rivals.

Hardrock FC secured promotion to the Premier League, while their rivals Sheasham FC pulled out of the league due to unresolved issues, clearing the path for other contenders.

Head coach Johannes Ngodzo said last season was a valuable learning experience and the team is now gunning for their central region maiden gong this season.

“Our wish this season is to bring the Premier league in Gwanda and this season we want to take our games seriously and ensure that we scoop more points. In our maiden season we finished in the top three,” said coach Ngodzo.

Over 30 players, including versatile midfielder Nakai Siziba, who last year played for Nkayi United, and most of the Bosso 90 squad from last season, are currently trialing with Gwanda Pirates.

Gwanda Pirates’ captain demonstrated his dedication by turning down lucrative offers from Premier League and Central Region teams to remain with the club and lead the charge for promotion.

The black-and-white outfit is also reaping the rewards of a productive transfer window, with several players securing moves elsewhere. Among them is Nigerian striker Benji, who recently earned a transfer to Premier League giants Highlanders FC. The departures, along with others who joined different clubs, underline Gwanda Pirates’ growing reputation for nurturing and successfully marketing talent.

Gwanda Pirates has also been gearing up for the season, having played friendlies against Beitbridge’s Dulivadzimu United, Vhembe Stars and now they’re set to face Hardrock in Kwekwe, with Bulawayo Chiefs also on the agenda.

The central region Southern region division one league will bring more thrilling action with Superstrikers FC, Gwanda Pirates’ arch-rivals, joining the fray, setting the stage for a repeat of their intense rivalry from the lower division.

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