Johnson Progress

The Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) is facing criticism for its plan to expand the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) to 20 teams and introduce a single National First Division with 20 teams, starting from the 2026 season.

Critics argue that the existing 18-team league is already struggling, and the expansion will further compromise the standards of the PSL.

“We smell a rat somewhere because the way in which Zifa is rushing things is not normal and raises suspicions of undercurrent pushing own agendas,” says an Inside Sport report.

The report questions Zifa’s motives, suggesting that the expansion might be driven by rumored sponsorship deals.

Zifa’s plan has also raised concerns about the financial sustainability of the National First Division, which was previously rejected due to financial constraints.

The association has not provided clear explanations for the expansion, fueling speculation about ulterior motives.

Some Zifa executives claim they were not consulted about the PSL expansion and the introduction of the National First Division, sparking fears that President Nqobile Magwizi might be acting unilaterally.

“Or has Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi become power unto himself and is doing whatever he wants with Zimbabwean football?” the report asks.

The controversy has overshadowed Scottland’s recent win of the 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title.

While the team is congratulated for their achievement, they are reminded that they still have a long way to go, with Dynamos holding 21 titles and a strong presence in the CAF Champions League.

Zifa has yet to address the concerns and criticisms surrounding the expansion plan, leaving the football community wondering about the future of the sport in Zimbabwe.