Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi, Zimpapers Sports Hub
MIDFIELDER Denver Mukamba is set to take centre stage once again as giants Dynamos aim to halt the momentum of self-styled “Harare’s new kings,” Scottland, in a Castle Lager Premiership showdown at Rufaro Stadium on Saturday.
Mukamba, who has previously played for both clubs, was unexpectedly released by Scottland despite captaining them to top-flight promotion. Yet, the rejection has not dampened his spirit. Instead, he has re-emerged at Dynamos, injecting life into a struggling side with flashes of his former brilliance and reigniting belief among fans who had nearly lost hope.
Though no longer the 90-minute talisman of his prime, Mukamba’s return has coincided with a revival at DeMbare under new coach Kelvin Kaindu. The Glamour Boys have secured three consecutive wins, though they remain mired in relegation danger. What’s undeniable is that Mukamba has brought back a sense of swagger. Fans have shown their appreciation by showering him with cash after matches — a nostalgic nod to his golden years.
Kaindu, a long-time admirer of the playmaker, believes the 32-year-old could be pivotal in the club’s battle for survival.
“He’s a very, very important player. He’s quite influential on the game,” said Kaindu. “I think you can see even the way the fans respond when we introduce him (in the last game against GreenFuel). He had one good free kick which could have gone in. That is the impact Denver can show. In every game he has come through, he’s demonstrated that he’s still the old Denver.”
Still, the coach remains cautious about placing too much expectation on Mukamba.
“We still got work to do with him. He hasn’t been that active, but with the games coming, maybe we’ll increase his minutes. I’m sure he’s still got something in his legs. You could see him running into space to get the ball. We just hope he keeps up the momentum and also the discipline he has displayed. We need a player like Denver in the team,” Kaindu said.
Dynamos’ recent resurgence will be tested by a Scottland side that has taken the league by storm. The Mabvuku-based outfit assembled the most expensive squad in the league this year, attracting marquee names such as Khama Billiat, Walter Musona, and Tymon Machope. During the mid-season window, they strengthened further, signing former Warriors captain Knowledge Musona, striker Terrence Dzvukamanja, and teenage sensation Mafious Chihweta.
Their investment is yielding results. Scottland are on a seven-match winning streak and are hot on the heels of log leaders Simba Bhora. Many now see the title race as a two-horse sprint. Their confidence spilled onto social media this week, where they boldly declared themselves “Harare’s new kings,” boasting of a power shift “from Mbare to Mabvuku.”
Dynamos fans were quick to push back against the claim, accusing Scottland of attempting to buy identity and even of encroaching on the sacred “Vietnam” stand at Rufaro Stadium, traditionally a Dynamos stronghold.
The psychological battle is rich with personal subplots. Scottland coach Tonderai Ndiraya, once a Dynamos stalwart, masterminded a 1-0 win in the first-leg clash. Now, the stakes are even higher. Dynamos may be fighting relegation, but form, history, and emotion have reignited the rivalry. Kaindu is well aware that Saturday’s clash is about more than just points.
“It’s going to be a big game. They’ve got the pedigree, they’ve got the finances, they’ve got a squad they are able to rotate. But I think we’ll try and maintain what we are having and just hope we come strong on the day,” he said.
“Yes, the fans are coming in, and we know the next game they will still be there. We need their support, honestly. We want them to give us that support and the zeal so we keep pushing. We are in this with everyone.”
Fixtures
Saturday: Bikita Minerals v TelOne (Gibbo), Ngezi Platinum Stars v FC Platinum (Baobab), Scottland v Dynamos (Rufaro), GreenFuel v Simba Bhora (GreenFuel Arena), MWOS v Chicken Inn (Ngoni).
Sunday: Highlanders v Yadah (Barbourfields), CAPS United v ZPC Kariba (Rufaro), Triangle v Herentals (Gibbo), Kwekwe United v Manica Diamonds (Ascot).
