Sidumisile Mabena
Innocent Kurira in Maphisa
MAPHISA is buzzing.
The growth point has burst into life ahead of today’s Independence Cup final between Highlanders and Scottland, with a festive, carnival-like atmosphere sweeping through the community.
Fans have been arriving since the early hours, pouring in from across Matabeleland South and beyond. The streets are packed, the colours are bold, and the noise is constant.
Drums, whistles and song fill the air.
Highlanders supporters, draped in black and white, have turned large sections of the venue into a moving choir, belting out club anthems with energy that reflects years of following their team from afar. From the stands to the surrounding areas, their presence is overwhelming, giving the Bulawayo giants what feels like a home advantage despite the neutral setting.
Scottland fans have also travelled in numbers, adding their voice to an already electric build-up, but the tone of the day has largely been set by the Highlanders faithful.
Vendors are doing brisk business selling jerseys, flags, roasted maize and refreshments while music blares from cars parked along the roadside. Small groups break into dance, children run around with improvised footballs, and every passing moment builds towards kickoff.
Online Reporter