Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
DYNAMOS captain Emmanuel Jalai knows exactly what to expect when the Battle of Zimbabwe explodes at Barbourfields this Sunday; noise, nerves, and raw emotion.
For six straight years, the 26-year-old right back has been part of the country’s biggest football rivalry, and he’s seen it all, the magic and the mayhem that come when Highlanders and Dynamos lock horns.
This weekend’s clash at Emagumeni comes with more than just bragging rights on the line. Both giants are walking a tightrope near the drop zone.
DeMbare sit on 33 points, level with Bikita Minerals, while Bosso are only two points ahead, meaning this could be more survival scrap than classic spectacle.
Jalai, who joined Dynamos in 2019 and now wears the captain’s armband, is calling for both sets of fans to keep their cool.
“We encourage our supporters to come in numbers and rally behind the team from start to finish,” he said.
“This is the biggest fixture in the country. We must give it our all, but there’s no need for violence. Whatever the result, both sets of fans should accept it peacefully.”
Jalai has just returned from national duty, where he turned in a solid performance in Zimbabwe’s narrow 1–0 loss to Lesotho in Polokwane. But now his eyes are back on Barbourfields, where he’ll once again lead the Glamour Boys into enemy territory.
Dynamos are unbeaten in nine league games, their last defeat coming against Chicken Inn on 27 July, and Jalai is determined to keep that streak alive, with peace on and off the pitch.
“It’s a tough game we’re expecting,” he said. “We have to work extra hard and stay focused. Our pride is at stake, and so is our future in the league.”
As the tension builds in the City of Kings, all eyes will be on whether the Battle of Zimbabwe delivers fireworks or finally, just good football.
