Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira-Zimpapers Sports Hub
BULAWAYO is brimming with excitement as Highlanders prepare to host the Zimbabwe senior football team in an exhibition match at Barbourfields this afternoon.
Rarely have the Warriors been in Bulawayo over the years.
This has largely due to the fact that Zimbabwe does not have a CAF-certified stadium, which has meant that the Warriors have endured the frustration of playing their home games in other countries.
But with the Warriors preparing to play in neighbouring Botswana in a Four-Nations tournament, the opportunity presented itself for ZIFA to give Bulawayo fans a glimpse of the kind side coach Marin “Mario’’ Marinica is building.
Today’s match also has a significant bearing on the Bosso family.
It forms part of Bosso’s Centenary celebrations, marking 100 years of existence of one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic football institutions. For fans, this is more than just a match.
It is an opportunity to witness the Warriors back at Emagumeni after a prolonged absence, and to celebrate the legacy of Highlanders in a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere.
Although the game may not carry competitive stakes, the anticipation has turned it into a must-watch spectacle, with supporters eager to see some of the nation’s best talent on home soil.
The build-up to the clash has been electric. On the eve of the game, Highlanders and Warriors supporters took to the streets in a colourful roadshow, drumming, singing, and dancing through the city in a lively display of unity and passion.
The procession, blending club pride with national allegiance, showcased the true spirit of Zimbabwean football.
Fans who spoke to Zimpapers Sports Hub ahead of the match expressed their excitement at being part of a historic occasion. Highlanders’ supporter Evans Chigona, popularly known as “Referee we Bosso” said: “This has not happened in a long time.
With Bosso celebrating 100 years, this is the best thing that could have happened.
“It’s also good that prices have been lowered to allow people to come in their numbers.”
Chicken Inn’s number one supporter, Mcloud Moyes, added: “Today we come together as the football community to enjoy the beauty of the game.”
Another fan, who identified himself as Vontro, shared his enthusiasm: “I look forward to a good game of football in a friendly atmosphere.”
Popular Highlanders fan Mayibongwe “Mgijimi” Mkhweli, renowned for his energetic runs, trademark wig and pitch-side antics, predicted a win for Bosso.
“We are winning this game 3-2 as Highlanders, and I am sure it will be an exciting game,” said Mgijimi.
ZIFA have also ensured that the match is accessible to all by lowering entry charges with tickets pegged at US$3 (Rest of Ground) Grand Stand access (US$5) and the VIP tickets at US$10.
School children in uniform will be admitted for just US$1 and as a safeguarding measure, will be housed in the Mpilo End.
It’s a match that promises to be a celebration of Zimbabwean football culture, bringing together generations of supporters to honour a club that has shaped the sport in the country.
With the city firmly in football mode and emotions running high, Barbourfields is set to host a memorable day where club pride, national representation and the love of the game will converge in one spectacular event.
