Story by Mthokozisi Dube
THE City of Bulawayo is buzzing with excitement ahead of the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final clash between giants Highlanders and newcomers Scottland at Barbourfields Stadium this Sunday.
The last time Scottland visited Bulawayo, Barbourfields was filled to the brim with a crowd that rivalled the famous “Battle of Zimbabwe” between Highlanders and Dynamos.
The fixture also brought downstream benefits, with parking marshals among the biggest beneficiaries.
This weekend, Scottland return for a much-anticipated showdown with Bosso, and the atmosphere is already thick with anticipation.
“We normally make big money during games like Highlanders versus Dynamos, but the coming in of Scottland has given us another opportunity. We are really looking forward to the fixture,” said a parking marshal.
“We are doing the countdown. Last time, the Highlanders–Scottland match attracted a big crowd, and we made a good catch,” said another.
For Bosso fans, whose team is currently battling in the relegation zone, the Chibuku Super Cup provides a glimmer of hope and consolation.
“I have supported Highlanders my entire life. I missed the first encounter, but I believe we will go past Scottland on Sunday,
“Our team has not been doing well in the league, but we are optimistic we will turn the tide on Sunday,” they said.
Former Zimbabwe Saints defender Themba Ndlovu, who once played alongside yesteryear greats such as Ronald Sibanda, is cautiously optimistic.
“I support Bosso since it is the home team, but with Scottland’s form, anything is possible. We look forward to a good match,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final action kicks off on Saturday when Manica Diamonds host Triangle at Sakubva Stadium at 2 pm.
Defending champions Dynamos will then take on unpredictable ZPC Kariba at Rufaro, with the match scheduled for 3pm.
On Sunday, Bikita Minerals will face MWOS at Gibbo Stadium in Triangle.
