Barbourfields roars as Highlanders Edge CAPS in Battle of the Cities

Brandon Moyo

REASON Sibanda was the man of the moment as Highlanders edged old rivals CAPS United 1-0 in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League showdown at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday — a goal scored just two minutes into the match that sealed the fate of a tightly contested Battle of the Cities.

The Bosso forward struck early, calmly slotting home from inside the box and beating CAPS goalie Harmony Nare at his near post, sending the black and white faithful into a frenzy and snapping a three-match winless run.

With the win, Bosso picked up their second home victory in three games, having earlier demolished Kwekwe United 4-0 and drawn against Scottland.

CAPS United tried to claw their way back into the game, dominating possession for large spells of the first half. But Bosso’s backline stood firm.

In the 20th minute, Bosso fans held their breath as Talent Dube came to the rescue with a vital goal-line clearance. Ten minutes later, goalkeeper Reward Muza pulled off a sensational double save, denying Makepekepe a sure equaliser.

CAPS United’s Hastings Chapusha tried his luck from long range in the 39th minute, but his shot flew over the bar. They were handed a golden opportunity just moments later with a free kick at the edge of the box — but again, the chance went begging.

As the first half drew to a close, Arthur Ndlovu produced another heroic clearance, sweeping Juan Mutudza’s goal-bound shot off the line.

Drama continued as Love Mabiala thought he had equalised with a powerful header, but the officials ruled the ball hadn’t crossed the line — sparking protests from the CAPS bench.

Bosso had a chance to wrap it up at the death when Hubert Ncube broke free but opted for personal glory instead of squaring to Nigel Banda. His shot was smothered by Nare, keeping the scoreline respectable.

Starting Lineups:

Highlanders:
Reward Muza (gk), Talent Dube (Brian Mlotshwa 63′), Arthur Ndlovu, Melikhaya Ncube, Reason Sibanda (McKinnon Mushore 78′), Prince Ndlovu (Hubert Ncube 63′), Malvern Hativagoni, Brighton Ncube (Tendai Muvuti 78′), Mason Mushore, Never Rauzhi, Luckmore Mutumbi.
CAPS United:
Harmony Nare (gk), Kelvin Mangiza, Kundai Benyu (Eric Manokore 65′), Bruce Kangwa, Hastings Chapusha, Brighton Manhire, Phineas Bhamusi, Love Mabiala (Junior Bunjira 65′), Tanaka Shandirwa, Juan Mutudza (Jayden Bakari 75′), Joseph Mbollo.
Bosso fans will hope this gritty win reignites their title charge — and with Sibanda leading the line, anything’s possible!