Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
THE 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League resumes this weekend, with all eyes fixed on how the traditional powerhouses — Highlanders, Dynamos, and CAPS United — will respond after their lacklustre season openers.
In Week One, the “big three” all faltered, failing to secure a single victory. Highlanders suffered a 1-0 defeat to newcomers MWOS, CAPS United were held to a 1-1 draw by GreenFuel, and Dynamos played out a goalless stalemate against ZPC Kariba.
While it’s far too early to draw definitive conclusions about the season, these teams urgently need to find their rhythm. The second round of league action provides their starting point.
Saturday Chronicle previews the weekend’s action.
Highlanders vs Kwekwe United
Highlanders will be determined to avoid a second consecutive defeat in their opening two matches, particularly against newly promoted teams. Following a humbling 1-0 loss to league debutants MWOS last week, Highlanders will be eager to make amends in their first home fixture of the season.
Barbourfields Stadium is expected to be packed with loyal supporters as coach Kelvin Kaindu seeks a crucial win against Kwekwe United tomorrow. The club remains hopeful that their FIFA transfer ban will soon be lifted, allowing them to bolster their squad. Kwekwe United, buoyed by a solid 1-1 draw in their top-flight debut against Ngezi Platinum Stars, will be keen to carry that momentum into this clash.
Kwekwe United boasts a seasoned coach in Saul Chaminuka, who has a blend of youth and experience in his squad. Experienced players include Dennis Dauda, Timothy January, Masimba Mambare, Allan Gahadzikwa, and Hilary Bakacheza.
Dynamos vs Herentals
Dynamos will be desperate to secure their first win of the season when they face Herentals at Rufaro Stadium this afternoon. The Harare giants were held to a goalless draw by ZPC Kariba in their opener, and coach Lloyd Chigowe will be hoping for a more clinical performance from his team. Dynamos collected four points from Herentals last season. The first meeting between the two teams ended in a one-all draw, with Dynamos winning the return leg 2-1.
CAPS United vs Scottland
CAPS United will aim to upset the season’s title favourites, Scottland, at Rufaro Stadium tomorrow. Despite being forced to come from behind in their season opener, Lloyd Chitembwe’s side has shown promise, especially with new signings like Kundai Benyu and Tanaka Shandirwa. Their task will be challenging, as Scottland has invested heavily in their squad, acquiring stars such as Walter Musona and Khama Billiat. This matchup promises to be a highlight of Week Two, with both teams eager to make an early statement. Scottland won their opening game 1-0 against Triangle, though the victory was far from convincing.
FC Platinum vs Manica Diamonds
Former champions, FC Platinum, will face a tough test against Manica Diamonds at Mandava Stadium today. The platinum miners were held to a goalless draw by Simba Bhora in their opener, while Manica Diamonds began their season with a 1-0 victory over Yadah Stars. Last season, Manica Diamonds proved to be a difficult opponent for FC Platinum, defeating them in both fixtures. This match promises to be a high-intensity affair, with both teams looking to gain an advantage early in the title race.
Fixtures
Today:
Herentals v Dynamos (Rufaro), ZPC Kariba v Simba Bhora (Nyamhunga), TelOne v Triangle (Ascot Stadium), Ngezi Platinum v Greenfuel (Baobab), FC Platinum v Manica Diamonds (Mandava), Bikita Minerals v MWOS (Sakubva).
Tomorrow
CAPS United v Scottland (Rufaro), Highlanders v Kwekwe United (Barbourfields)
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