Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE battle of the cities is back, but this time, it’s more about survival and self-respect than bragging rights.
CAPS United and Highlanders, two clubs that once set the pace in Zimbabwean football, square off this afternoon at Rufaro Stadium in Harare, both desperate to shake off a season that’s fast slipping into mediocrity.
Once feared giants, the two sides have tumbled further down the log. Highlanders now sit ninth after ZPC Kariba hammered Kwekwe United 3-0 yesterday. CAPS United, already reeling from inconsistency, were pushed into 10th.
And Dynamos, the country’s most storied club, are second from bottom with just 16 points, one ahead of basement dwellers Kwekwe United, who look destined for the drop.
The dire form of the so-called Big Three has left fans disillusioned. But for Bosso and Makepekepe, today offers a chance, however slim, to restore some pride.
Highlanders interim coach Try Ncube, insists morale remains high and says his charges are determined to fight for the badge.
“The mood in the camp is good. The boys are raring to go. We are also fighting for our reputation,” said Ncube from Harare last night.
“We are aware that there are no easy games, so the CAPS game is no exception. Having said that, we are geared up to fight and get a good result.”
While Highlanders continue to rely on familiar faces, who have flattered to deceive under multiple coaches, CAPS United have made bold moves to stop the rot.
They brought in Zambian Under-17 coach Ian Bakala, to replace long-serving Lloyd Chitembwe two months ago, and have recruited several new players from across the Zambezi.
It remains unclear whether Nigerian forward Benjamin Olowarithim, coming from Gwanda Ramblers has been cleared to make his Bosso debut. The club has so far confirmed the registration of Panashe Mushonga, who was previously frozen out in February.
Club spokesperson Nozibelo Maphosa, said more arrivals will be announced on their official platforms.
Up front, Bosso have struggled for firepower. Reason and Marvin Sibanda haven’t quite clicked as starters, while deploying Brighton “Maninja” Ncube as an impact sub hasn’t worked either.
Still, there are flickers of promise. Highlanders have been creating chances, they just haven’t converted them. If they can find composure and finish with precision, they could start turning performances into points.
There’s more than just three points at stake this afternoon. Pride is on the line. Legacy is being questioned.
And for two fallen giants of Zimbabwean football, time is running out to rewrite the narrative.
