By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, 2 March 2026 — Mutare City Rovers FC will open their 2026 Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League campaign with a demanding long-distance trip to face Renco Mine FC, as the season kicks off in the third week of March.
The opening fixture presents an immediate test for the Mutare-based side, with travel fatigue and unfamiliar conditions expected to play a role. Renco Mine has traditionally proven a difficult venue for visiting teams, making the curtain-raiser a significant early hurdle for Rovers as they seek to set a positive tone for the season.
Week One Fixtures
Bikita Minerals FC vs Buffaloes FC
Manica Diamonds U-19 FC vs Africa Mineral Ventures FC
Power FC vs Tongogara United FC
Renco Mine FC vs Mutare City Rovers FC
Deportivo La Murambinda FC vs Destiny Stars FC
Bikita Chida Athletic Club vs Chivhu FC
Tenax Correctional Services FC vs Yadah FC
Masvingo United FC vs Great Zimbabwe University FC
GreenFuel FC vs Grand Legacy FC
Speaking to Fungai Munyoro, the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League administrator, clarity was provided on the absence of Rusitu Tigers and Wangu Mazodze Reef from the 2026 fixture.
“Rusitu Tigers are not part of the 2026 fixture after they formally requested to be excused from participating this season in order to put their house in order administratively,” Munyoro said.
“However, the club did pay its membership subscription to maintain its membership status within the league, so they remain affiliated but are not competing this season.”
On Wangu Mazodze Reef, Munyoro added:
“Wangu Mazodze, on the other hand, did not meet the affiliation requirements within the stipulated timelines and were therefore not included in the fixture.”
As clubs finalise preparations ahead of kickoff, attention will firmly be on how Mutare City Rovers handle their challenging opening assignment at Renco Mine—an early test that could shape their momentum for the season ahead.