THE highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Zifa Northern Region Division One Soccer League (NRSL) bursts into life on Friday after a false start last week caused by the delay in the issuance of licences.
Everything is now in place for the league to kick start as teams tussle for the single slot to the Premier Soccer League.
After last year's gripping contest between eventual winners Scottland and Mwos, this term promises yet more enthralling entertainment even after the top two teams from last season ascended to the top tier.
Black Rhinos, at some point last year, looked to be the favourites before they lost their way after losing some players in the mid-season transfer window.
The army side kicks off with a tough away match against Golden Eagles, who also fancy their chances this time around.
Eagles will host Chipembere at Ellis Robin School tomorrow.
There are two matches on Friday as N'ombeyaora, under the tutelage of experienced coach Nisbert Saruchera, kick off the season with a home match against Pam at Heart Stadium.
Shamva host Harare City. The city fathers made a blistering start to their campaign last year before sliding down the table after coach Herbert Maruwa had left for the Premier League.
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Chegutu Pirates are back in the NRSL after a year's stint in the topflight.
With the wily old fox Moses Chunga in their dugout, they are confident of plotting an instant return to the premier league.
Chunga's charges begin their campaign with an away match against Mwos Under 19.
Agama gave a good fight last year, which has seen them getting listed as one of the teams to watch.
They are back stronger and intent on taking the main prize after hiring top coach Arthur Tutani.
Tutani plotted Simba Bhora's way to the Premier League but was sidelined because he did not possess the required qualifications.
Agama are on the road to Banket, where they play Banket United on Sunday.
That should be another good watch.
The NRSL have spiced things up after clinching a sponsorship deal with Supa Fix. The company will pour in about US$11 000 towards monthly individual prizes.
Fixtures
Friday: N'ombeyaora v Pam (Heart Stadium), Shamva v Harare City (Shamva Mine)
Saturday: Mwos Under 19 v Chegutu Pirates (Gwanzura), Chinhoyi Stars v Chinhoyi Rangers (Chinhoyi Stadium), Zambezi G&C v Cranborne Bullets (Centenary Country Club), Golden Eagles v Black Rhinos (Ellis Robin School), Karoi United v Ngezi Platinum Under 19 (Chikangwe Stadium), Trojan Stars v Ali Sundowns (Trojan Mine), Black Mambas v FC Oden (Morris Depot)
Sunday: Banket United v Agama (Kuwadzana Stadium)
