Innocent Kurira
HIGHLANDERS have an opportunity to add another memorable chapter to their 100-year history when they take on CAPS United in a Chibuku Super Cup semi-final at Rufaro this afternoon.
For a club celebrating a century of existence, reaching the final would be more than just another milestone in a cup competition.
It would provide a fitting footballing highlight to a year in which the institution has celebrated its rich history and brought together generations of its football family.
Highlanders board member Elkanah Dube believes making it to the final would be the icing on the cake for the Bulawayo giants as they mark their historic anniversary.
“Making it to the final would be the icing on the cake for Highlanders as we celebrate 100 years of existence. It would be a special achievement for the club, our players, members and supporters,” said Dube.
The centenary celebrations have provided plenty of memorable moments away from the pitch, but a place in the Chibuku Super Cup final would give supporters another reason to celebrate their beloved institution.
However, the assignment awaiting Benjani Mwaruwari’s men is anything but straightforward.
CAPS United have already beaten Highlanders twice in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League this season, winning 2-1 at Barbourfields Stadium before completing the double with a 4-2 victory in Harare.
That record gives the Green Machine a psychological advantage heading into the encounter, but
Highlanders have an opportunity to rewrite the script when the two traditional giants meet with a place in the final at stake.
There is also the weight of history behind Bosso’s ambition. Their last Chibuku Super Cup triumph came in 2019, when they defeated Ngezi Platinum Stars 1-0 at Barbourfields Stadium.
Seven years later, the black and white army are chasing another opportunity to lift the trophy, this time in a season that carries special meaning for the institution.
Highlanders have had to negotiate difficult assignments to reach the last four, progressing past
Chicken Inn and MWOS through penalty shootouts after the respective matches ended in draws.
Their ability to survive those knockout encounters demonstrates the resilience required at this stage of the competition, although they will need to be more clinical against CAPS United.
