Highlanders’ bid to extend their Chibuku Super Cup supremacy could be a tall order as How Mine lie in ambush in the quarter-finals of the oldest knockout competition in Zimbabwean football.
BY MICHAEL MADYIRA The tournament kicks off next weekend and Highlanders boast of five Chibuku Cup titles while other traditional giants Dynamos and Caps United have what appears to be easy first round pairings.
The draw was conducted yesterday and DeMbare host WhaWha at Rufaro Stadium as Caps United welcome struggling ZPC Kariba.
The quarter-final’s biggest round has, however, the Highlanders-How Mine showdown appearing as the major drawcard.
It is now 42 years since Bosso bagged their first Chibuku Cup having dismissed the now defunct Mangula 3-0 in the 1973 final.
They proceeded to win the cup four more times to become the record holders.
Bosso coach Bongani Mafu is under the spotlight to emulate the classes of 1973, 1980, 1984, 1986 and 1989 that bagged the trophy.
“We just want to do well in this cup, but we have to beat How Mine first. I would not want to talk about us dominating this cup or reaching the final at this stage because there is How Mine to worry about. We will take it step by step,” said Mafu.
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How Mine coach Luke Masomere has also chosen to be diplomatic about his side’s chances of reaching the final.
“It is a very fair draw,” said Masomere.
“To me it is exciting meeting one of the biggest teams in Zimbabwe. Highlanders will, however, not have an easy game against us and the same can be said about How Mine. Lifting this cup is out of question right now. Top priority is getting to the next stage.”
Defending champions FC Platinum have been handed Dongo Sawmills, while last year’s losing finalists Harare City have been paired with Buffaloes.
Chicken Inn face Hwange as Triangle host Tsholotsho.