Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWEAN football is staring at a possible historic shake-up, with traditional giants Dynamos, Highlanders, and CAPS United all hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
With just six matches remaining before the end of the season, the unthinkable is now a growing possibility that the country’s most decorated and supported clubs could all be fighting for survival rather than chasing glory.
The situation has sparked widespread concern among football stakeholders, fans, and analysts, who warn that the potential relegation of the three giants who built the PSL brand could deal a heavy blow to the local game’s heritage, fan base, and commercial appeal.
The three teams share 34 PSL titles between them, with Dembare on 22, Bosso seven, and Makepekepe on five to add to the numerous trophies they have won over the years.
Dynamos, Highlanders, and CAPS United are not just any football clubs; they are more of a lifestyle in Zimbabwe, and for decades, these clubs ruled the league, filling stadia and collecting trophies.
Today, it is a different story as they are staring relegation with their proud histories on the line.
One might be tempted to think that Bosso are safe in ninth position, but the Bulawayo giants are far from safety as they are just four points above the relegation zone.
Makepekepe are two points behind Highlanders and embroiled deep in the fight for survival, while DeMbare have been swimming in the murky relegation waters for the better part of the season.
Highlanders, once untouchable at Barbourfields and at one time nicknamed Bossolona after the famous Spanish giants, Barcelona, because of their unique brand of football, have gone from title challengers to a side struggling for identity.
CAPS United’s trademark free-flowing football has vanished, and they seem just happy to fulfil matches.
Dynamos, better known as the Glamour Boys, are limping after some poor recruitment.
Emerging names like Simba Bhora, Scottland, MWOS, TelOne, and Platinum teams Ngezi and FC Platinum are pulling away, while the giants are stuck in the drop zone.
Fans who used to sing with joy are now biting their nails while Barbourfields and Rufaro Stadium feel like pressure cookers, not the fortresses we have been accustomed to.
With six matches to go, every match is now a final, and one mistake could be fatal for the traditional big three.
