Opinion: Kudos to Bosso for showing true sportsmanship and the gods of football smiled on you

In a league where teams, officials, and fans often feel cheated whenever a decision goes against them, even when it is correct, Highlanders showed true character on Sunday, ironically in the 88th minute at Barbourfields Stadium.

Scottland goalkeeper Talbert Shumba spilled the ball into the path of Bosso defender-turned-striker Brian Mlotshwa, who bundled it into the net with his hand. Fans erupted in celebration, believing the equaliser had stood.

Referee Brighton Chimene initially pointed to the centre circle, but his assistant flagged for handball.

Without hesitation, Chimene correctly overturned the goal.

It was a brave decision and a reminder why he carries the CAF badge.

Chimene showed that he is fearless and firm, even under pressure from thousands in the stands.

What followed is what Zimbabwean football should take note of.

Yes, there were protests from Bosso players, coaches with fans threatening to invade the pitch if the goal was disallowed.

Even newly appointed team manager Amini Soma-Phiri had to step onto the pitch to calm things down.

Order prevailed.

The players were instructed to continue fighting, not walk off in protest.

This was in contrast to incidents involving other big clubs, such as Dynamos, whose players walked off at Mandava Stadium against FC Platinum in protest at a referee’s decision and Chicken Inn, who did the same against Scottland in a league match in Harare.

Arguably, by refusing to leave the pitch, Bosso were rewarded by the gods of football, a reminder to other protesting clubs that “it’s not over until it’s over.”

Vice-captain Andrew Mbeba struck a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser, sparking wild celebrations across Barbourfields Stadium from the terraces to the VIP stands.

Moments later, Marvin Sibanda had a chance to win it with a free kick at the edge of the box, but his effort failed to trouble Shumba.

The referee blew the final whistle and the match went straight to penalties.

The shootout carried its own drama as well.

Bosso missed their opening two spot-kicks while Scottland converted one.

Scottland then crumbled under pressure, failing to score all the remaining four penalties while Bosso steadied themselves, netting twice to seal a thrilling 2-1 victory and book a semifinal clash with arch-rivals Dynamos.

Highlanders’ resilience, discipline, and refusal to let chaos define them at their Barbourfields fortress, a venue often associated with protests and violence, made all the difference.

In a football culture too often marred by protests and abandoned matches, Bosso chose sportsmanship.

And in return, football smiled back.

Well done, Bosso. Amahlolanyama.