The much-anticipated Chibuku Super Cup semi-final between Dynamos and Highlanders lived up to its billing, delivering a tense and emotionally charged contest that ended in a dramatic penalty shootout at Rufaro Stadium.
The match began at a frantic pace, with Dynamos creating the first real chance in the 4th minute when Jemali Jalai combined neatly with Frank Mavhunga, who released Gwatidzo down the right. Gwatidzo delivered a fine cross into the box, but the opportunity went to waste as the Glamour Boys failed to convert.
Moments later, in the 7th minute, Mbeba confronted Hammond following a rough challenge, leading to a Highlanders free kick outside the centre circle. The set piece, however, was comfortably cleared by Dynamos’ backline, which remained composed and compact under pressure.
The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Emmanuel Jalai pounced on a loose ball to fire Dynamos into the lead, sending the blue half of the stadium into raptures. Highlanders, however, refused to surrender and clawed their way back into the game, with Melikhaya Ncube restoring parity after a well-worked team move.
With both sides creating half-chances but failing to find a winner, the game ended 1-1 after regulation time, forcing a penalty shootout to determine who would advance to the final.
In the shootout, Dynamos held their nerve, converting all five of their spot kicks, while Highlanders faltered once, handing DeMbare a 5-3 victory and a spot in the Chibuku Super Cup final.
The result sees Dynamos set up a showdown against Triangle United, who await them in what promises to be another thrilling cup finale.
Dynamos Starting XI:
Prince Tafiremutsa (GK), Emmanuel Jalai, Abel Gwatidzo, Clive Mandivei, Issaka Mohammed, Tellmore Pio, Vhusa Ngwenya, Shadreck Nyahwa, Frank Agyemang, Felix Hammond, Leroy Mavunga
Substitutes: Temptation Chiwunga, Enasio Perezo, Valentine Kadonzvo, Alexander Mandinyenya, Keith Madera, Wisdom Mutasa, Tendaishe
Highlanders Starting XI:
Ariel Sibanda (GK), Arthur Ndlovu, Brian Mlotshwa, Reason Sibanda, Malvern Hativagoni, Marvin Sibanda, Andrew Mbeba, Never Rauzhi, Darlington Mukuli, Luckmore Mutumbi, Atusaye Nyondo
Substitutes: Raphel Pitisi, Mvelo Khoza, Melikhaya Ncube, Prince Ndlovu, Tendai Muvuti, Brighton Ncube, Mason Mushore, Learnmore Muyambo, Benjamin Adeogun
Final Score: Dynamos 1–1 Highlanders (Dynamos win 5–3 on penalties)
Goals: Jalai (Dynamos), Melikhaya Ncube (Highlanders)
Venue: Rufaro Stadium
Competition: Chibuku Super Cup Semi-Final