Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HIGHLANDERS coach Pieter de Jongh has embraced the underdog tag ahead of Sunday’s Chibuku Super Cup quarter final against Scottland but believes a full Barbourfields Stadium can tilt the contest in Bosso’s favour.
“It is a big game and we are not the favourites. The favourites are Scottland but in a cup game anything is possible. We play in our stadium, and if it is full, anything is possible. On Sunday, we need to fight and show spirit,” said De Jongh.
Bosso will lean heavily on their fans to overturn the odds. The Dutchman, who guided Highlanders to Chibuku Cup glory in 2019, knows how decisive knockout football can be when home advantage and crowd energy combine.
“I have won two titles in Zimbabwe and also in other countries. I know what it means to play such games. Football is not all about money, it’s about what happens in the 90 minutes on the pitch,” he said.
Highlanders and Scottland have already met twice in the league this season. The first match ended 1-1 at Barbourfields while the Mabvuku side won the return fixture 2-1 at Rufaro Stadium.
Despite that record, De Jongh remains upbeat. “We believe in ourselves. Scottland may have the stars, but we have heart and the people behind us,” he said.
The coach urged Highlanders fans to come in their numbers. “I hope for a full house and strong support from our fans. We have the best fans. If Barbourfields is packed, we can push harder, fight more and surprise them,” he said.
On team news, De Jongh confirmed that goalkeeper Reason Sibanda and defender Andrew Mbeba are still on a separate recovery programme. “Reason Sibanda and Andrew Mbeba are on the pitch, but they are not training with the rest of the squad,” he said.
He also called for fair play. “I want fair play for everyone, fair play for Highlanders and for Scottland. Football is for the fans and everyone. We want a good and exciting game,” he said.
With the Emagumeni fortress set for a raucous atmosphere, De Jongh’s message is clear, Highlanders might not carry the favourites’ tag, but with unity, belief and a packed stadium, anything is possible.
