Clifford Dzvairo Defies Odds as Hunters FC Secure Historic Promotion to Premier Soccer League

By Takudzwa Madondo

Clifford Dzvairo

At just 26 years old, Clifford Dzvairo has guided Hunters FC to their first-ever promotion to the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League, following a 2–1 victory over title contenders Tenax CS FC at Rudhaka Stadium in Marondera yesterday.

The win crowned Hunters FC champions of the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League with one game to spare, edging out both Masvingo United and Tenax in what had been a tightly contested three-horse race.

Dzvairo’s youthful energy, tactical maturity, and unshakable self-belief have transformed what many considered a risky appointment into a masterstroke. When he took over, few believed someone so young could command authority in a senior dressing room or guide a team to glory. But Dzvairo remained focused and committed.

“There were always whispers,” he said. “Some said I was too young to lead a team. But I believed in myself, and I’m grateful the club trusted me to show what I can do.”

With promotion secured and a final game against Deportivo La Murambinda still to be played, Dzvairo’s journey is far from over. He now faces the challenge of preparing Hunters FC for life in the Premier Soccer League — a new stage where expectations will be higher, scrutiny sharper, and the competition even tougher.

But if this season is anything to go by, Clifford Dzvairo is more than ready for the challenge.
Since taking charge, Dzvairo has reshaped Hunters FC into a disciplined and results-driven unit, capable of competing and winning in challenging conditions both home and away. The team’s success is not only a milestone for the club but also a breakthrough for Mashonaland East, which hasn’t had a team in the top flight since St Paul’s Musami last featured in the 1990s.

Dzvairo, who once struggled to command the respect of older players, has earned it through hard work, vision, and dedication to player development. “Football players are not easy people to deal with, especially when you’re younger than them,” he said. “But when players see your vision, your work ethic, and your commitment to their growth, they follow.”

Despite his success, questions have been raised over whether Dzvairo possesses the necessary qualifications to coach at PSL level. He confirmed that he has been actively pursuing his coaching badges since 2017. “If our country had regular CAF courses, I would have completed my CAF A Licence by now. I’m currently working towards my CAF B,” he explained.

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