Accessibility links

Breaking News

Zimbabwe's Highlanders Soccer League Champs - But Pockets Empty


Highlanders Football Club players, coaches and managers are pleased to have locked up the Premier Soccer League title Sunday with a 4-2 win over Hwange at Wankie Colliery - but have some trouble savoring the title with no prize money attached.

With the country in the depths of a seven-year recession, no sponsor materialized this year to provide a cash reward. Observers say such impoverished league play could undermine soccer in Zimbabwe despite the huge popular support it enjoys.

Highlanders won the title with three games left in the season, but said that in the spirit of sportmanship it will play the remaining games despite the lack of prize money. The team now qualifies to play in next year's African Champions League.

Highlanders Chairman Ernest Sibanda gave reporter Marvellous Mhlanga-Nyahuye of VOA's Studio 7 for Zimbabwe his thoughts about the upcoming challenge.

More reports from VOA's Studio Seven for Zimbabwe...

XS
SM
MD
LG