Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira [email protected]
BULAWAYO Chiefs head coach John Nyikadzino has admitted that his side are in for a demanding afternoon when they face log leaders Caps United at Rufaro tomorrow, but insists his team will not travel to Harare as mere passengers.
Caps United, who sit firmly at the summit of the table with 22 points from nine matches, have been one of the standout sides in the early stages of the campaign, combining defensive discipline with sharp attacking play. Chiefs, meanwhile, have collected 10 points from the same number of games and are still searching for consistency.
Nyikadzino was quick to acknowledge the challenge posed by the Green Machine, stressing that their position on the log is no fluke.
“We are facing the log leaders, Caps United. They are not on top of the table by chance. They are a good side. They have quality coaches and players, and we are looking forward to this match,” said Nyikadzino.
Despite the gulf in league standings, the Chiefs mentor remains upbeat about his team’s chances, pointing to their improved showing in recent weeks, including a morale-boosting 2-0 win over Chicken Inn last weekend.
“That victory injected some confidence into the Bulawayo side, who have endured a mixed start to the season but are slowly finding rhythm in key areas,” he said. Nyikadzino believes that momentum could prove vital as they head into one of their toughest fixtures of the season. Caps United, however, will present a different kind of challenge altogether. The Harare giants were in action against Highlanders last weekend, a match Nyikadzino observed closely, although he was quick to downplay any tactical advantage from that viewing.
“As Bulawayo Chiefs, we focus on our game plan. Of course, we saw them play, but this will be a different game,” he said.
The Chiefs coach is expected to stick with a structured approach, likely prioritising defensive organisation and quick transitions as they attempt to contain Caps United’s attacking threat. With both sides coming into the match with contrasting form and ambitions, the encounter promises to be a classic David-versus-Goliath affair on paper. Caps will be aiming to maintain their grip at the top of the table, while Chiefs will be targeting a statement result to further steady their season. For Nyikadzino, the focus is simple: compete, stay disciplined, and execute the game plan. “It has been a fair start to the season. Every game has been difficult, but I think we have had a fair start,” he said, summing up his team’s campaign so far.
