Hardrock dump Scottland out of Chibuku Super Cup

Hardrock FC knocked Scottland out of the Chibuku Super Cup after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the quarter-final clash played at Rufaro Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

The visitors drew first blood in the 14th minute when Eswatini international Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini fired home from close range after connecting with a brilliant cross from Lenox Mucheto.

Hardrock could have doubled their advantage four minutes later when Washington Navaya got past Kevin Moyo, but his effort was straight at Scottland goalkeeper Talbert Shumba.

Hardrock’s Lenox Mucheto tussles for the ball with Scotttland’s Mthokozisi Msebe. Picture by Fanzone

Hardrock were the more dangerous side in the opening half, creating several chances, but Dlamini’s strike remained the difference between the two sides at the half time interval.

Scottland returned from the interval with more attacking intent, but struggled to turn their possession into clear-cut chances as Hardrock’s defence held firm, with Gerald Takwara in particular, resolute at the back.

Scottland introduced Walter Musona and Khama Billiat in the 55th minute in search of a way back into the game, but the Kasongo Boys stood firm.

Hardrock came close to adding a second in the 59th minute when an unmarked Navaya headed over with Shumba beaten.

The match was temporarily stopped in the 65th minute after Navaya suffered a head injury following a collision with Issaka Mohammed.

The big striker had to be stretched off. As Scottland pushed for an equaliser, Abubakar Moffat was withdrawn for Tymon Machope in the 73rd minute as coach as Mapeza looked to inject more attacking threat.

With four minutes remaining, Scottland won a free-kick in a promising position, but captain Walter Musona’s effort struck the defensive wall.

Hardrock made two late substitutions in the 90th minute, bringing on Wilfred Manzungu and Donald Mudadi as they looked to see out the match.

Scottland piled on the pressure in the closing stages, but Hardrock stood firm to secure their place in the semi-finals. Scottland will hope to recover when they host Agama in a league encounter on Saturday, while their eyes will be on progression in the CAF Champions League.

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