Story by Mthokozisi Dube
BULAWAYO – CASTLE Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) action returns this weekend following the international break, with the spotlight firmly on the blockbuster encounter between Highlanders and defending champions Simba Bhora at Barbourfields Stadium this Sunday.
The much-anticipated clash carries emotional and professional significance for Simba Bhora head coach, Joel “Dubai” Luphahla, a former Highlanders player and coach, who is set to face his former paymasters on familiar turf.
Luphahla, who began carving his coaching credentials away from home, was initially brought back into the Highlanders technical team by then-coach Mandla Mpofu to assist with the club’s attacking department.
However, the union was short-lived, with the appointment of Portuguese gaffer Baltemar Brito reshuffling the technical bench.
Though retained briefly as part of Brito’s backroom staff, Luphahla eventually exited Highlanders when Zambian expatriate Kelvin Kaindu took over the reins.
He later joined Dynamos as an assistant before being snapped up by the Shamva-based outfit Simba Bhora, where he was appointed head coach ahead of the 2024 season.
Despite a slow start to life in the topflight, Luphahla has since stabilised the team, placing them among this season’s title contenders.
His return to Bulawayo has already set tongues wagging, as many see the fixture as an emotional reunion and a proving ground.
“This is a coach with Highlanders blood in his veins, and this match is not just about three points it is about legacy and pride,” a local fan said.
Match Day 15 kicks off on Saturday with Green Fuel hosting TelOne at the Green Fuel Arena, while CAPS United, buoyed by their away win over Manica Diamonds, return home to face Chicken Inn.
Ngezi Platinum Stars welcome Manica Diamonds to Baobab Stadium, while Yadah take on Herentals. Bikita Minerals will host Dynamos at Gibbo, as FC Platinum entertain ZPC Kariba at Mandava.
Sunday’s fixtures include Scottland taking on Kwekwe United and Triangle hosting log leaders MWOS at Gibbo.
