IN a game-changing move for women’s soccer, Walter Magaya, the visionary leader of The Heart Group, has introduced the Plate Championship, a tournament that gives a second life to teams knocked out of the ongoing inaugural The Heart Women Soccer League Tournament.
The innovative competition features eight teams that fell short in the Round of 16, plus four more that exited the quarterfinals stage.
These teams will now have a chance to redeem themselves and compete for a lucrative purse, in addition to the prize money they will receive for participating in the original tournament.
Tournament Administration Manager Wellington Mpandare announced the news on Thursday evening.
“The Plate Championship is a fantastic addition to the tournament, offering more games and exposure for our talented players. We’re committed to growing women’s soccer, and this initiative demonstrates our dedication,” Mpandare stated.
Mpandare envisions the Plate Championship as a platform where fans, scouts, and coaches can discover new talent and witness the best of women’s soccer under one roof.
“This competition will reveal the depth of talent in women’s soccer, and we’re honoured to be sponsoring this initiative,” he added.
Tournament Director Arthur Gorejena also welcomed the new competition, calling it a step in the right direction.
“The Plate Championship provides meaningful matches for bottom-placed and quarterfinal-knocked-out teams, increased exposure for players, and opportunities for scouts and coaches. It’s a great way to promote women’s soccer growth, ” Gurajena said.
The Plate Championship fixtures are set to kick off on Friday, September 20, with the 1st Round Losers Plate Cup matches, followed by the semifinals and finals on Saturday, September 21. The action will take place at the Main Arena and B Arena, with the first match starting at 8:00 am.
This development is a breath of fresh air for women’s soccer, as the Plate Championship is about to become the most exciting second-chance story in women’s soccer.
