Kwekwe United FC, the first team from the city to compete in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League in 16 years, is facing mounting financial challenges that threaten to derail their promising campaign. Despite their commendable performance on the pitch, the club is grappling with unpaid salaries, missed bonuses, and an inability to cover basic operational costs like stadium rentals and police fees for home games.
Following a hard-fought goalless draw against FC Platinum, Kwekwe United’s coach Saul Chaminuka opened up about the team’s struggles, making an emotional plea for corporate sponsorship.
“We want financial support so that our boys can really give out what they have,” the coach said. “Sometimes we are training, sometimes we are not. I don’t like that as a coach because it affects our consistency and performance.”
Chaminuka highlighted the stark reality of modern football, where players rely on the game for their livelihoods. “Today’s football is their employment. If things are not fair, it becomes difficult for them to perform,” he added, emphasizing the need for stability to build a “polished team” that can deliver entertaining and winning football.
Currently sitting 13th in the league with 5 points from 5 matches, Kwekwe United has defied expectations given their off-field turmoil. Their resilience has been evident, with a win and two draws, including a gutsy defensive display against title contenders FC Platinum. However, the lack of financial backing looms large, with reports of unpaid salaries and mounting debts casting a shadow over their top-flight return.
The club’s plight has resonated with fans, who fear a return to the days when Kwekwe was absent from the elite league. “We want to give people the kind of game they will enjoy,” the coach stressed, appealing to potential sponsors to step in and secure the team’s future.
As the league progresses, the question remains: Will Kwekwe United find the support they need to sustain their fairytale comeback, or will financial constraints cut their dream short? For now, the team continues to fight—both on and off the pitch.
