Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS and Scottland have met twice in the league this season and today their rivalry sharpens inside Barbourfields Stadium, in a Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final that promises a full blooded fight.
Both teams want a result that define their season.
For Highlanders, the Cup offers a chance to salvage pride after a rough league campaign. The Bulawayo giants sit ninth on 33 points, only four clear of the drop zone and need a lift in front of their home crowd.
Scottland arrive with very different momentum. The Mabvuku side, enjoying a dream debut in the top flight, are second on 53 points and just two behind leaders Simba Bhora with six league games left.
This will be the third time they meet this year. The first clash ended 1-1 at Barbourfields. Scottland edged the return 2-1 at Rufaro. Both league games were tight and this one should be no different.
Highlanders coach Pieter de Jongh, who guided Bosso to the Chibuku glory in 2019, respects the visitors but is ready for a scrap. Scottland travel with a squad stacked with big names: Warriors veterans Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat, Terrence Dzvukamanja, and August Player of the Month Tymon Machope, who is chasing the Golden Boot.
Former Bosso defender Peter Muduhwa and creative midfielder Mafious Chihweta, add even more quality.
Analyst Dalubuhle Bhebhe, believes Highlanders can still swinging it if they set up smartly.
“The clash will be a tightly contested affair that will showcase a lot of tactical discipline. A draw is a big possibility, especially looking at the evenly balanced nature of both sides. I tip the game to go to the penalty shootout,” Bhebhe said.
He outlined Bosso’s keys to survival.
“Bosso will need to have a compact midfield and quick transitions. Scottland will rely on individual brilliance and wide play. I think defensively, Highlanders will be vulnerable looking at the attacking options, which Scottland have. That forward line-up makes any coach green with envy.”
Yet he also sees a crack Highlanders can exploit.
“Their forwards tend to shy away from duels, which Highlanders might take to their advantage. The Bosso fans are going to play a big role in the performance of the team. I expect an exciting match.”
The Emagumeni faithful could indeed be decisive. Barbourfields has long been a fortress for Bosso and this afternoon the crowd will again act as a 12th man, urging their side to stay alive in the Cup.
