Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive title races in recent memory, with very little separating the top six teams towards the halfway stage of the season.
In previous seasons, clear favourites often start pulling away by the halfway stage, but this year the race remains remarkably tight.
Newcomers Hardrock, defending champions Scottland, surprise package Herentals and early pacesetters CAPS United are all locked on 28 points at the summit, separated only by goal difference.
Just two points behind are Ngezi Platinum Stars in fifth place, while Dynamos remain firmly in contention as part of a crowded chasing pack, underlining the intensity of the battle at the top.
The competitiveness has ensured that every match carries added significance, with teams constantly exchanging positions on the table as the race gathers momentum.
The closely contested nature of the championship has also been reflected in growing attendances, with fans turning out in increasing numbers to witness what is becoming an enthralling season.
Even Highlanders, who endured a sluggish start to the campaign, have fought their way back into the picture and are just sit just six points off the leaders.
With several contenders still harbouring realistic title ambitions and the second half of the season fast approaching, the 2026 title race remains wide open and promises plenty more twists and turns.
The battle is just as intense at the opposite end of the table where teams are fighting to avoid the dreaded chop.
Bottom-placed TelOne anchor the standings on eight points after 15 matches, with Triangle just a point ahead.
Manica Diamonds sit on 10 points, while the pair of new boys AGAMA and FC Hunters are level on 11 points, hence the bottom five teams are separated by only three points.
Although Bulawayo Chiefs, ZPC Kariba and Chicken Inn have opened a slight buffer above the relegation zone, the margin remains far from comfortable.
