By Advent Shoko | ZiGoats
Highlanders FC are through to the Chibuku Super Cup final after defeating CAPS United 3-1 on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw in regulation time at Rufaro Stadium.
Bosso held their nerve in the shootout to book a place in the final, where they will face in-form Hardrock FC, who are also enjoying an impressive campaign and currently lead the Premier Soccer League (PSL) standings.
The victory keeps Highlanders’ cup ambitions alive while extending CAPS United’s difficult run, with Makepekepe having recently suffered a 1-0 league defeat against title-chasing Scottland FC.
Sibanda Rescues Highlanders
The semi-final started cautiously, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut opportunities during the opening exchanges.
CAPS United gradually settled into the contest, but neither side could find a breakthrough before half-time.
The teams went into the break deadlocked at 0-0.
CAPS United eventually broke the deadlock in the 61st minute through Davison Marowa, putting Highlanders under pressure as the clock ticked down.
Bosso responded with substitutions, bringing on Royn Nyamono and Shelton Moyo in the 65th minute in an attempt to change the momentum.
Highlanders also suffered a setback when goalkeeper Aron Ngwenya picked up an injury in the 76th minute after making a crucial one-on-one save to deny CAPS United.
Reward Muza replaced him a minute later.
However, Highlanders refused to surrender.
In the 80th minute, Andrew Mbeba delivered another dangerous set-piece, with Reason Sibanda rising highest to power home a header and make it 1-1.
The equaliser sent the contest into a penalty shootout after neither side could find a winner in regulation time.
Bosso Hold Their Nerve
Highlanders were clinical from the spot, converting all three of their penalties to win the shootout 3-1.
CAPS United, meanwhile, struggled under pressure, missing three of their four attempts.
The result sparked celebrations among Highlanders supporters as Bosso secured their place in the final.
Hardrock Await In The Final
Highlanders will now turn their attention to a potentially difficult final against Hardrock FC.
Hardrock have been one of the standout teams in the league this season and currently sit at the top of the PSL standings.
The final promises an intriguing contest between a Highlanders side buoyed by its cup progress and a Hardrock team enjoying an impressive league campaign.
For CAPS United, however, the defeat adds to an increasingly frustrating period.
Highlanders, meanwhile, are one match away from lifting the Chibuku Super Cup.
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