Highrange Earn Historic Promotion to Division One After Dramatic Rufaro Triumph

Highrange FC secure historic promotion to ZIFA Northern Region Division One after a 1–0 win over Scottland Under-19 at Rufaro Stadium (image source)

Harare — Highrange Football Club sealed a landmark promotion on Sunday after edging Premier Soccer League-backed Scottland Under-19 1–0 in the Harare Province Division Two A and B play-off final at Rufaro Stadium, securing the province’s sole ticket into the ZIFA Northern Region Division One for the 2026 season. The hard-fought victory crowned a season of steady progress for a club built on community intervention and social purpose.

The final was tense and finely balanced from the outset. Scottland, one of the most well-resourced youth sides in the province, dominated possession through a technically fluent midfield and quick transitions. Highrange responded with disciplined organisation, physical resilience and a compact defensive shape that limited clear chances. The decisive moment came in the first half when Billiam Chimbo finished clinically from a swift counter-attack, a goal that ultimately separated the sides.

Founded and financed by Highrange Property Developers directors Kuziva and Weyne Zimunya, the club was established as a grassroots response to rising drug and substance abuse in a Harare community. What began as a social intervention offering structure and purpose to disadvantaged youths has evolved into a competitive football programme that blends talent development with education support and community outreach.

Club president Kuziva Zimunya described the promotion as validation of the club’s dual mission. He said the achievement reflected the players’ commitment and discipline, adding that the club now aims to consolidate its place in Division One and target Premier Soccer League status within two years. He reaffirmed plans to continue investing in youth pathways, coaching capacity, sports psychology and community programmes.

Promotion to Division One brings increased demands, including higher competition standards, longer travel and greater operational costs. Highrange’s leadership says preparations are under way to strengthen the technical team, expand scouting networks and secure additional sponsorship to support player welfare, transport and matchday logistics. While backing from Highrange Property Developers provides a foundation, the club is also seeking partnerships with local businesses and civic stakeholders to ensure sustainability.

The achievement was widely celebrated within the local football fraternity. ZIFA Harare Province Division Two League chairman Robert Tembo praised Highrange’s preparation and mentality, describing the play-off final as football of near Premier Soccer League quality and commending the team’s discipline. Supporters at Rufaro highlighted the club’s work ethic and the visible impact of its social mission.

As Highrange prepares for life in Division One, the immediate challenge will be consolidation: retaining key players, upgrading training facilities and converting community goodwill into long-term institutional support. For now, the club celebrates a historic milestone that underscores how grassroots football, when anchored in purpose, can transform both league fortunes and young lives.