CAPS United ended an 11-year wait for victory at Barbourfields Stadium with a hard-earned 2-1 win over Highlanders on Sunday, combining an assertive first-half display with disciplined defending under late pressure.
The visitors set the tone early, attacking with purpose from kickoff. Takunda Benhura, Ishmael Wadi and Obriel Chirinda repeatedly tested the Highlanders backline, forcing hurried interventions. Within minutes, Andrew Mbeba was required to make a crucial sliding challenge to deny Benhura, while goalkeeper Aron Ngwenya rushed off his line soon after to stop Wadi.
CAPS United maintained control throughout the opening period, dominating possession and creating the clearer chances. Their persistence nearly paid off in the 10th minute when Dominic Njaliwa capitalized on hesitation between Ngwenya and Nomore Chinyerere, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.
The breakthrough arrived in the 36th minute. Kudzai Chigwida found space behind the defense and converted from close range following a well-executed free-kick routine, giving CAPS a deserved lead at halftime.
Highlanders returned from the break with renewed urgency, led by Mongameli Tshuma in midfield. They began to apply pressure and nearly equalized early in the second half when Mvelo Khoza’s free-kick forced a strong save from Wallace Magalane. Appeals for a handball during another set-piece were dismissed by referee Brighton Chimene.
However, just as the hosts appeared to be gaining momentum, CAPS United doubled their advantage. Another defensive lapse from a set piece allowed Njaliwa to score in the 61st minute, putting the visitors firmly in control.
Highlanders responded in the 74th minute through Darlington Mkuli, whose powerful long-range effort reduced the deficit and energized the home crowd. The closing stages saw sustained pressure from the hosts, including a strike off the post by Prince Ndlovu in the 80th minute, but CAPS United remained organized and held on for the win.
After the match, Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari acknowledged his side’s slow start proved costly.
“We started badly. When you start bad like we did against an organised team you get punished. It was only in the last 20 minutes when we started to cause problems for them but it was too late. It’s a lesson to my boys,” he said.
CAPS United coach Takesure Chiragwi emphasized his team’s focus on results rather than history.
“History is there but we can’t rely on what happened in the past. We play to win matches. Our focus is on collecting maximum points,” he said.
The result not only ends a long winless run at Barbourfields for CAPS United but also strengthens their position in the title race. For Highlanders, the defeat will be a frustrating reminder of the cost of a slow start despite a spirited late effort.
Discover more from Nehanda Radio
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
