Gwao header separates the sides at the break

 

Highlanders 0–1 ZPC Kariba

ZPC Kariba head into the break with a narrow 1-0 lead over Highlanders, courtesy of a well-taken header from Kelvin Gwao in the 16th minute.

Gwao capitalized on some slack marking inside the box, rising unchallenged to nod home a pinpoint free-kick delivered by Ciphas Musikawanhu. The goal stunned the home crowd and gave Kariba the early momentum.

Highlanders, struggling to find rhythm, could have been level in the 24th minute when a defensive lapse allowed Prince Ndlovu space in the box, but his tame effort was easily gathered by Kariba goalkeeper Future Sibanda.

In an attempt to spark life into his side, Bosso coach Pieter De Jongh made a double substitution midway through the half, introducing Darlington Mukuli for Learnmore Muyambo and Mason Mushore for

Benjamin Adeogun. The changes seemed to add some urgency, but the final product continued to elude the hosts.

Ndlovu again squandered a golden opportunity just five minutes later. After a clever step-over created space, the young forward dragged his shot wide, drawing audible groans from the Highlanders faithful.

The best chance for Bosso came in the 43rd minute when a rebound fell kindly to substitute Adeogun, but the striker failed to hit the target from close range, slicing his effort agonizingly wide.

ZPC Kariba nearly doubled their advantage in first-half stoppage time. A loose ball inside the Highlanders box fell to Moses Demera, but the forward blasted his shot off target, letting the home side off the hook.