Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
The Premier Soccer League’s fiercest new rivalry is set for a knock-out test, with log leaders Scottland yesterday being drawn to face second-placed Hardrock in the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-finals.
This potentially explosive showdown is scheduled for the weekend of September 12-13, in a tie where bragging rights, a treble dream, and a semi-final spot are all on the line.
In a draw conducted in Harare yesterday, record holders Dynamos were pitted against newcomers FC Hunters, while CAPS United will host ZPC Kariba and MWOS will be away to Highlanders. Scottland and Hardrock have been circling each other all season. Now the draw has forced them into one winner-takes-all quarter-final that could define both their seasons. Kelvin Kaindu’s debutants forced themselves into the title reckoning after Hardrock went on a strong run that started in April.
Unlike in the league marathon where spoils can be shared, the Chibuku Super Cup offers fans a potentially explosive encounter where a winner must emerge.
Scottland spokesperson George Munengwa welcomed the draw.
“We are very happy to be in the cup quarter-finals . . . before we look at the calibre of opponent we are to face, getting into this round depicts the investment that we put into the project,” he said.
“The draw was fair and transparent; we have been drawn to a fascinating and tough opponent whom we played twice in the league and managed to snatch four points.
“We know a lot of people will be eyeing this game, so we are wasting no time to hit the ground running and resume preparations because it will definitely be a big one with a lot at stake.” The two sides are still in a good position to bag a treble as they are still in good positions in the league, ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup and Chibuku.
Scottland take on MWOS Under-19 at Rufaro this afternoon in the Munhumutapa Round of 16, while Hardrock travel to Jordan at Luveve tomorrow. Munengwa is confident that Scottland can prevail over Hardrock, citing that they have the depth to comfortably play in all the local competitions and the CAF Champions League when they host Nsingizini Hotspurs in their opening round on September 6, at National Sports Stadium.
Chibuku quarter-final draw:
CAPS United v ZPC Kariba, Highlanders v MWOS, Dynamos v FC Hunters, Scottland v Hardrock
