By Mandla Ncube
Southern Region Soccer League side Bulawayo Chiefs will head to the resort town of Victoria Falls seeking better fortunes on Saturday against Vic Falls Herentals FC at Chinotimba Stadium under the tutelage of new coach John Nyikadzino.
After a promising start to the season, Chiefs have struggled recently and are currently winless in their last two matches. They were held to a goalless draw by Mainline in Plumtree a fortnight ago and bit the dust last Saturday going down 2–1 to Nkayi United at home.
Alarm bells were already ringing when Hwange moved into first place, prompting Chiefs to act swiftly by appointing a new coach. Bekithemba Ndlovu had taken over on an interim basis following the departure of Maxwell Takendesa Jongwe.
Nyikadzino is expected to hit the ground running, as the Chiefs currently sit just one point behind Southern Region Division One league leaders Hwange, with 19 points from their opening nine games.
Amakhosi Amahle confirmed Nyikadzino’s appointment via a press release yesterday.
In announcing his arrival, the Chiefs stated that Nyikadzino brings “a proven track record of success in Zimbabwean football.”
“After a thorough selection process that considered numerous applicants, Coach Nyikadzino stood out due to his remarkable achievements and commitment to developing competitive teams. His coaching career includes notable successes with Chapungu FC, where he secured promotion to the Premier League in 2013 and led the team to the semi-finals of the Chibuku Super Cup in 2015. Additionally, he achieved promotion with Nichrut FC in 2018 and, most recently, with Sheasham FC in 2022,” the statement read.
Nyikadzino commands respect within the football community for his tactical acumen and results-driven approach, and he holds a CAF A coaching license.
Relegated from the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League last season, the Chiefs are aiming for a quick return to the top flight.
The club added, “His vision aligns perfectly with the aspirations of Bulawayo Chiefs FC as we aim to build a strong and competitive squad for the upcoming season.”
Chiefs will look to the seasoned presence of Kelvin Madzongwe, whose leadership in midfield earned him SRSL’s May Player of the Month award. They will also bank on the impressive shot-stopper Matripples Muleya, In defence, the composed Kim Joe Sibanda will provide stability, while Panashe Shoko’s dynamism in midfield and match-winning exploits remain key. Up front, Jimu Gwara, already on three goals this season, adds a clinical edge
