FIVE-A-SIDE football is on a revival, especially in Mbare, which was once a vibrant home for the sport, back in the day. Also known as Futsal, the game had faded, thanks to a combination of factors including lack of sponsorship. However, there is a glimmer of hope in Mbare which has been hosting some Northern Region Futsal games. Sunshine Stars clinched the championship a fortnight ago, in their maiden season, after walloping Glen Stars by 4-0 in their final match at Stodart Netball Complex in Mbare. “So far so good Futsal is now in the right direction and it’s still a baby that needs good caring with the right people and the right partnerships with the corporate world,” Northern Region Futsal chairman, Callistus Keche, said. “The 5-A-Side game has helped a lot of youths to stay away from drug abuse. “We are hoping our Futsal players can also participate in the Futsal World Cup and Futsal Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. “And also, if we manage to get an international friendly with other Futsal powerhouses, it would be nice,” added Keche. The next season starts in May and time to source a sponsor might be running out for the executive. “So far we don’t have sponsorship but we are working hard to find corporates who want to work with Futsal in Zimbabwe. “We are inviting teams from all over the country to come and join our fast growing game,” said Keche. Sunshine Stars chairman, Dexter Chafa, is on cloud nine, after his side clinched the title in their maiden season. He is however worried about the lack of sponsorship.