Story by Anashe Murombedzi
CASTLE Larger Premier Soccer League champions Scottland FC are set to face traditional giants Highlanders FC in the 2026 Independence Cup final at Maphisa this Saturday, as national celebrations gather momentum.
The highly anticipated clash forms part of Zimbabwe’s Independence Day commemorations, with this year’s festivities being hosted in Maphisa, Matabeleland South Province, in line with Government efforts to promote inclusive national celebrations under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “leaving no one and no place behind” mantra.
The encounter is expected to headline the celebrations, with Premier Soccer League champions Scottland bringing fresh energy against Highlanders, the country’s oldest football club.
Scottland will be aiming to impress in a province where Highlanders are expected to enjoy strong home support.
Mabviravira will also be banking on experienced coach Norman Mapeza, who is familiar with the competition after guiding FC Platinum to Uhuru Cup glory last year.
“It is a good game of football. We are celebrating independence, and our preparations have been going well. I have been here before, if not twice, and have won it, so I think it is good for the club playing for the first time,” he said.
As Zimbabwe marks its 46th Independence anniversary, all eyes will be on Maphisa to see who lifts the 2026 Independence Cup.
