By McGeorge Mbare
DULIBADZIMU United will face Gwanda Pirates in Matchday 25 of the Central Region Soccer League Division One on Wednesday, September 16, at 3:00 p.m at Dulivhadzimu stadium.
The encounter is one of the most anticipated battles in the league and serves as the Matabeleland South Derby.
The Beitbridge side will be hoping to draw inspiration from the home crowd as they look to change the course of history in their meetings with Gwanda Pirates.
Dulibadzimu United have never defeated Gwanda Pirates, either at home or away, in their history.
In their previous head to head encounters, Gwanda Pirates recorded a 4-1 victory at Phelandaba Stadium, followed by a 1-0 win and a 3-0 victory at Ronnie’s Arena.
Coach Rutherford Matondo was in charge when Dulibadzimu United suffered a 4-1 defeat to Gwanda Pirates at Phelandaba Stadium in the first half of the 2025 season before leaving for Hard Rock FC.
Fast forward to 2026, Matondo has returned and his Matchday 25 assignment is a big one against Pirates, requiring caution, determination and a strong survival spirit from his team.
Dulibadzimu United are in the middle of a major rebuilding process and have been fighting to avoid relegation since the beginning of the second half of the season.
Their efforts appear to be bearing fruit.
Gwanda Pirates, on the other hand, will be looking to maintain their position and finish the season in a respectable place, having currently occupied fifth position.
Gwanda Pirates have 45 points, which is four points fewer than the 49 points they had after Matchday 23 of the 2025 season.
Elsewhere, Tongogara will host Shabanie Mine at BF Stadium, while West Nicholson travel to Sabiwa Stadium to face log leaders Blanket Mine.
Blanket Mine remain unbeaten in the Central Region Soccer League.
Both teams are title contenders, but Blanket Mine currently have the advantage.
The clash is one of the most anticipated matches in the league and has added significance as a Gwanda local derby.
Speaking ahead of the match, West Nicholson coach Ofhani Muleya said his boys would give Blanket Mine a tough challenge and urged supporters to come in large numbers to witness the big battle.
“West Nicholson is one of the surprising sides. It is one of the clubs that we can call a giant killer. This is going to be a thriller of a match between the two. I’m just urging supporters to come and witness the battle,” Muleya said.
Shurugwi will host Sabi Gold Mine in a battle between the two debutants, who are both fighting to survive relegation.
GoodMorning will host Chapungu FC, while Grain Tigers will welcome MSU FC at Mbizo Stadium.