Zimstar Sports

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has played down suggestions the exit of top guns from the Chibuku Super Cup has robbed the tournament and the sponsor the glamour and mileage associated with the country’s premier knockout competition.

Dynamos and Highlanders, the country’s most followed teams, were bundled out of the competition at quarter final stage this past weekend, shattering hopes of a dream final between the outfits.

Caps United, another giant within the country’s premiership, is also out of the competition.

Football followers are concerned the exit of the giants could downgrade the profile of the completion and deny the sponsor of much-needed mileage.

Football matches involving the clubs have usually produced fireworks often in front of good crowds even when there would be little to play for.

However, PSL spokesperson Kudzai Bare told Zimstar News Tuesday the Chibuku Super Cup was all about competition and not necessarily crowds.

She said Highlanders and Dynamos played up to quarter final stage of the competition and “that’s mileage enough”.

She added, “They have not been performing well that is not a secret.

“I think it’s important to note that we are moving away from that; I think all leagues across the world are moving away from the traditional giants approach.

“The upcoming teams are doing very well and it’s something very commendable that the big three teams should try to emulate in terms of marketing and all that.

“So, as the PSL, I don’t think we can lose sleep that Highlanders, Dynamos and Caps United did not progress to the semi-finals.

“They have played well but it’s all about competition; that is why we have a very competitive 18-team league.”

In the semi-finals, Black Rhinos clash Bulawayo Chiefs while FC Platinum play Herentals.