ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup draw keeps Premiership sides apart

The ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup Round of 16 draw has largely kept Premiership clubs away from one another, producing just two all-top-flight ties. CAPS United will host Manica Diamonds, while Ngezi Platinum Stars were paired with Herentals.

The remaining men’s fixtures feature clubs from different levels. FC Platinum will meet Black Rock, Chilli FC have been drawn against Bulawayo Chiefs, and Jordan FC will face Hardrock FC. FC Hunters will play Hwange, while Triangle were matched with Blanket Mine.

The final men’s tie sends Scottland against MWOS Under-19. The eight matches are scheduled for the weekend of August 28 to August 30, with venues to be used across the country.

The draw also set the women’s Round of 16 programme. Las Palmas will meet Herentals Under-19, Hardrock Queens will play Black Mamba’s Queens and Scottland Queens will face Herentals Queens. Kwekwe were paired with Harare City Queens.

The other women’s fixtures are Maningi Queens against Faith Drive Academy, Chegutu Community Queens versus Black Rhinos Queens, FC Platinum Royals against Correctional Queens and Chapungu Queens versus Mpopoma Sports Academy.

Eight futsal matches were also determined. Sunshine Stars will play Kilworth Academy, Inkunzi Emnyama face FC Millennium and GD5 meet Shibobo. TNS were drawn against Nedbank, Patricon against Amabhubesi Juniors, and South Wanders against Mitchet Stars. Amabhubesi will face Sobukazi Sports Academy, while GoBoyz meet 16 Views.

The men’s draw was conducted by Sports and Recreation Commission director general Allen Mavhunga. ZIFA secretary general Yvonne Manwa oversaw the women’s section, with each of the three categories receiving eight Round of 16 fixtures.