Zimbabwe Cup

The Cup of Zimbabwe (most recently known as the CBZ FA Cup due to sponsorship) is the top knockout tournament of the Zimbabwean football. It was created in 1962 as the Cup of Southern Rhodesia and was known between 1965 and 1980 as the Cup of Rhodesia. Due to sponsorship, the competition has undergone a number of name changes: from its creation in 1962 until 1998, the cup was known as the Castle Cup, after its sponsor, the Johannesburg-based Castle Lager. Castle also sponsored the Northern Rhodesian (Zambian from 1964) equivalent of the competition, which led to the creation of the "Super Castle Cup", played between 1962 and 1965 between the winners of the Southern Rhodesia Castle Cup and its Northern Rhodesian (from 1962 to 1964) or Zambian (in 1965) equivalent. After the cessation of Castle sponsorship, the competition was abandoned for two seasons before being brought back in 2001 as the ZIFA Unity Cup. It retained this name until 2006, when it was known as the CBZ Cup. This name was extended to CBZ FA Cup in 2007. The cup was not played in 2009 or 2010.

A new competition, the Mbada Diamonds Cup, was launched in 2011, with the 16 teams from the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League participating. The winner will qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup.

**Zimbabwe Cup: A Celebration of Football Excellence**

The Zimbabwe Cup is an exhilarating annual soccer tournament that showcases the best of Zimbabwean football talent, uniting teams from across the nation in a thrilling competition. Established to promote the sport and foster local talent, the Zimbabwe Cup has quickly become a highlight on the national sports calendar, drawing passionate fans and enthusiastic supporters from all corners of the country.

**Tournament Format:**
The Zimbabwe Cup features a knockout format, where teams compete in a series of intense matches leading up to the grand final. Clubs from various leagues, including both professional and amateur teams, are invited to participate, ensuring a diverse and competitive field. The tournament typically spans several weeks, culminating in a highly anticipated final that captures the spirit of Zimbabwean football.

**Community Engagement:**
Beyond the excitement on the pitch, the Zimbabwe Cup emphasizes community involvement and development. Local schools, youth teams, and grassroots organizations are encouraged to participate, fostering a love for the game among the younger generation. The tournament also includes various outreach programs, workshops, and events aimed at promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and healthy living.

**Cultural Celebration:**
The Zimbabwe Cup is not just about soccer; it is a vibrant celebration of Zimbabwean culture. Fans come together to enjoy local music, food, and festivities, creating an electric atmosphere at each match. The tournament serves as a platform for showcasing the rich heritage of Zimbabwe, making it a true community event that transcends the sport itself.

**Recognition and Awards:**
At the conclusion of the tournament, individual players and teams are recognized for their outstanding performances. Awards are given for categories such as Best Player, Top Scorer, and Best Goalkeeper, celebrating the skill and dedication of the athletes who compete. The winning team is crowned the Zimbabwe Cup champion, earning not only a prestigious trophy but also a place in the hearts of fans across the nation.

Join us for the Zimbabwe Cup, where passion meets talent, and every match tells a story of determination, unity, and the beautiful game!