Futsal Takes Another Step Forward with Southern Region League Launch

Zimbabwean futsal received a major boost on Sunday, 4 May, as the Southern Region officially launched its futsal league, marking another exciting step in the growth of the small-sided game across the country.

ZIFA Technical Director Dominique Niyonzima and Roots Impact Coordinator Liam Chanetsa attended the launch, underlining the Association’s commitment to expanding football development beyond the traditional 11-a-side game and creating more structured playing opportunities for men, women and young players.

The Southern Region futsal league will feature 14 senior men’s teams, eight women’s teams and eight junior teams, with each league set to run on a double round-robin format. The structure will give players regular competition, improve technical development and provide a strong platform for futsal to grow into a recognised and competitive discipline in Zimbabwe.

The launch was also significant for match officiating, as it welcomed newly licensed referees who completed Zimbabwe’s first futsal-specific referee course, held from Friday, 1 May to Sunday, 3 May. Their involvement gives the league a solid technical foundation and reflects ZIFA’s broader drive to strengthen all areas of the game through training, education and capacity building.

Speaking at the launch, ZIFA Technical Director Dominique Niyonzima said the growth of futsal was an important part of Zimbabwe’s football development pathway.

“Futsal gives players more touches, quicker decision-making and better technical confidence. Seeing this level of support from teams, referees and supporters is very encouraging, and it shows that the game has a bright future in Zimbabwe,” said Niyonzima.

The strong turnout from teams and supporters provided a lively and promising start to the league. For ZIFA, the Southern Region launch represents more than a competition kickoff; it is a clear signal that futsal is gaining momentum and opening new doors for participation, talent identification and football development across the country.

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