Highlanders came into their home clash with ZPC Kariba full of expectations, but the Barbourfields faithful were left frustrated after a 1-1 draw that exposed their side’s shortcomings.
ZPC struck early, in the 16th minute, when Kelvin Gwao was left unmarked to head home from a curling free kick. The goal caught Highlanders off guard, showcasing weaknesses in their marking and defensive organisation. Despite dominating possession thereafter, Highlanders struggled to convert their pressure into real attacking danger.
By the 58th minute, their persistence paid off when they won a penalty. Melikhaya Ncube stepped up, kept his composure, and levelled for Bosso — a lifeline that restored hope for the home crowd. After that, the match grew end-to-end, with both sides pushing for a winner. ZPC threatened on the break, while Highlanders threw men forward, but neither could find that final finish.
Coach Pieter de Jongh admitted his side lacked precision when it mattered most, particularly in the final pass and decision-making in the attacking third. Meanwhile, ZPC Kariba’s coach praised his team for staying calm under pressure and executing a game plan designed to stifle Highlanders’ midfield dominance.
Highlanders remain stuck mid-table, their ambitions disrupted by a draw they had hoped to turn into a statement win. For ZPC Kariba, the point is one to build on, especially away from home. As both teams look ahead, Highlanders will rue the moments they couldn’t convert, while ZPC take encouragement from their resilience on the road.
