Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
DYNAMOS captain Emmanuel Jalai has faced Highlanders for the last six years and he knows exactly what to expect when the two domestic football powerhouses clash, especially at Barbourfields.
Bosso host DeMbare on Sunday, in the latest instalment of the storied Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Battle of Zimbabwe showdown.
Jalai, who joined Dynamos in 2019, and is the longest serving of the current players at the Harare giants, has witnessed both the good and the bad sides of this high-profile fixture.
In good times, the traditional giants dish out sumptuous football meals.
And on the bad occasions it has been a poor advert of the Premiership when the fixture has been marred by ugly scenes of violence, with some contests ending prematurely.
As usual, tension and excitement are expected in the City of Kings on Sunday as there are a number of sub-plots to this epic encounter.
Dynamos, who are now under the guidance of former Highlanders coach Kelvin Kaindu, are not yet safe from relegation.
They have 33 points, the same as Bikita Minerals, who occupy the last relegation spot.
Highlanders are just two points ahead of DeMbare and are also hoping to remain clear of the murky waters.
“A tough game we are expecting.
“We have to work extra hard to get a positive result on Sunday,” Jalai told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
The energetic right back had a decent outing for the national team, albeit in a losing cause against Lesotho, who defeated Zimbabwe 1-0 in the last World Cup qualifying round at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Monday.
Jalai has now shifted focus to Dynamos.
He will lead the Glamour Boys into battle against Bosso.
The 26-year-old star defender is preaching peace ahead of this blockbuster.
“We encourage our supporters to come in their numbers and rally behind the team.
“We need them from the beginning up to the last whistle,” said Jalai.
He added: “I encourage safety and peace.
“This is a big football game, actually this is the biggest fixture in the land and we have to give it our all.
“As Dynamos we do not expect to lose against Highlanders because a lot is at stake.
“Our pride as a club is at stake, at the same time we are still fighting against relegation.
“But both sets of fans should accept the outcome, there is no need for violence.”
Dynamos are unbeaten in their last nine league fixtures.
Their last defeat was against Chicken Inn on July 27.
In fact, Dynamos are still to lose a game under the mentorship of Kaindu, who replaced Saul Chaminuka in the dugout.
