HARARE – In a dramatic turn of events at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday, Caps United snatched a thrilling 2-1 victory over their arch-rivals Dynamos in a match that will be remembered for its late-game drama and unexpected twists.
The win, secured in the final stages of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Week 29 fixture, showcased Caps United’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity against a traditional foe.
Dynamos started brightly, taking the lead through Valentine Kadonzvo shortly before half-time. This goal put the pressure squarely on Caps United, who found themselves trailing their rivals in a match that always holds immense significance for both sets of supporters. The first half ended with Dynamos holding a slender 1-0 advantage, leaving the second half poised for an exciting showdown.
However, the second half witnessed a remarkable turnaround. Jayden Bakare levelled the score for Caps United in the 72nd minute, injecting renewed hope into their comeback bid. With the score at 1-1, and the match seemingly destined for a draw, an own goal by a Dynamos player just under ten minutes from full-time gifted Caps United the winning goal, sealing a remarkable 2-1 victory.
This win marks another impressive comeback for Caps United against a fierce rival. Last month, at the same Rufaro Stadium, they overturned a two-goal deficit against Highlanders, eventually winning 3-2 with two late goals. This consistent ability to stage dramatic comebacks against their rivals highlights the team’s fighting spirit and determination.
While both teams are out of contention for the league title, having fallen significantly behind Simba Bhora in the points standings, the victory holds immense bragging rights for Caps United and their fans. The Harare derby always generates intense passion and rivalry, making this victory all the more significant for the Green Machine.
Elsewhere in the league, the weekend’s fixtures produced a mixed bag of results. Title contenders FC Platinum dropped crucial points after a 2-2 draw against Hwange at the Colliery. This draw further widened the gap between them and league leaders Simba Bhora, who currently sit atop the table with 60 points. FC Platinum are second with 51 points.
At Barbourfields Stadium, Highlanders secured a 2-0 victory over ZPC Kariba. However, the match was overshadowed by the near-empty stadium. Fans boycotted the game in protest against what they perceive as unfair treatment by match officials in a recent Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final clash against Simba Bhora. The quarter-final match was abandoned ten minutes before the final whistle with no goals scored.
Chegutu Pirates also celebrated a victory, defeating Bikita Minerals 2-1 at Baobab Stadium.
Following the conclusion of Week 29, the league table shows Simba Bhora firmly in first place with their commanding lead. Highlanders are third on 44 points, tied with Manica Diamonds in fourth, although Manica Diamonds have an inferior goal difference.
The race for the remaining positions and the battle to avoid relegation remains fiercely contested. The league continues to provide thrilling matches and unexpected results, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as the season reaches its climax. The battle for the top spots, and the fight to avoid relegation, promises to be intense in the remaining fixtures.
