Giants face gruelling schedule

Philemon Jambaya

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Dynamos and Highlanders, the two biggest football clubs in Zimbabwe, are facing a demanding schedule that could further test their on-field performances.

Both teams are set to clash in the Independence Cup final in Murambinda, capping off a long journey from their bases. Bosso, as Highlanders are affectionately called, embarked on a gruelling 564km trip yesterday, while Dynamos faces a slightly shorter trek of 426km.

The tight schedule doesn’t offer much respite. After the cup final, they return to their bases for Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches against TelOne and Chicken Inn respectively. Bosso has just a single day to recover before their derby against Chicken Inn.

Dynamos’ coach, Genesis Mangombe, is under immense pressure with the team languishing in 14th position. A string of underwhelming results - one win, three draws, and two defeats - has left them with a mere six points from a possible 18.

Meanwhile, Highlanders find themselves at the opposite end of the spectrum. Under the guidance of Kelvin Kaindu, they are yet to taste defeat in six games, sitting comfortably at the top of the table with 14 points.

Chicken Inn, Bosso’s upcoming league opponent, presents a stern challenge. The GameCocks are currently in fourth place with nine points, having displayed inconsistency with two wins, three draws, and one defeat. However, their recent 2-0 victory against Green Fuel has boosted their confidence.

Highlanders will pin their hopes on former Chicken Inn forward, Brighton Ncube. Ncube, who has netted three goals in just six games for Bosso this season, will be looking to prove his worth against his former club.

The upcoming matches promise exciting encounters across the league.

In other fixtures, CAPS United travel to Manica Diamonds, FC Platinum take on Bikita Minerals at home, and Simba Bhora face Bulawayo Chiefs at Luveve.