Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
THE Barbourfields clash is set to boil over this Sunday as former Highlanders coach Kelvin Kaindu returns on the opposing bench with Dynamos. But Highlanders gaffer Pieter De Jongh isn’t losing sleep over it.
Kaindu’s homecoming has dominated pre-match talk. Fans and pundits say his intimate knowledge of the Bosso squad gives Dynamos a huge edge. The Dutch coach, however, refuses to play into the hype.
“For me, that is totally not important,” De Jongh said. “It’s not about Kaindu, it’s not about me, it’s about Highlanders and Dynamos. Two big teams. Anything is possible in a big clash.”
Highlanders sit ninth on 35 points, while Dynamos are 14th with 33 points, tied with relegation rivals Bikita Minerals. The stakes are high. Both teams are fighting for survival, and the rivalry promises fireworks. Traditionally, the fading giants are known for battling for the top spot.
However, Zimbabwean soccer has evolved and newbies now rule the roost, leaving the former kings of football fighting for scraps at the bottom of the log.
De Jongh acknowledged Kaindu’s deep ties to Highlanders. “He knows this club inside out. He is a son of Highlanders and a good coach. I respect him as my colleague. But Sunday is about the players and the fans.”
The Dutchman also called for fair refereeing. “I expect fair play. What I saw against Dynamos and Ngezi Platinum was not fair play. On Sunday, we need a good referee for both sides. It is very important for Zimbabwean football.”
Squad-wise, Highlanders are injury-free. De Jongh is confident and ready to throw everything at Dynamos. “It’s a big game. I like big games. Everyone is available. We hope to get big support from our fans,” he said.
The fixture is expected to attract a massive crowd as passion, pride, and legacy take centre stage. It’s more than a match — it’s Barbourfields at full roar, where history and rivalry collide.
Other Match Day 31 fixtures will see Yadah take on ZPC Kariba at Heart Stadium, FC Platinum face TelOne at Mandava, Scottland battle MWOS at Rufaro, and GreenFuel host Kwekwe United at GreenFuel Arena. Ngezi Platinum Stars meet Simba Bhora at Baobab Stadium. On Monday, Bikita Minerals entertain Herentals at Sakubva Stadium.
Sunday promises a spectacle as Highlanders and Dynamos lock horns in a clash that could define the season. Fans are warned: expect drama, tensio and unforgettable football.
