Highlanders booked their place in the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-finals after edging Herentals College 1-0 in a tense rescheduled first-round clash at Nyamhunga Stadium on Sunday, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Mason Mushore.
With the clock winding down, Mushore curled a sublime free kick over the wall and past goalkeeper Tinotenda Takarinda in the 83rd minute, punishing the Students’ defence after Tawanda Chisi had halted Reason Sibanda’s threatening run with a late challenge. The goal sparked wild celebrations among Bosso supporters and proved decisive.
Highlanders had controlled much of the game, dictating possession and tempo, but their finishing touch was missing until Mushore stepped up. Once ahead, they held firm against Herentals’ desperate late push, showing defensive resilience to protect their slender lead.
Coach Hendrik Pieter de Jongh was pleased with his side’s effort, highlighting their strong game plan, intent to play good football and unity. He stressed that victories like this are for the Bosso family and hinted that his side now turns focus to building momentum in the league. De Jongh has fond memories of this competition, having guided Bosso to Chibuku glory in 2019.
Herentals, who were forced into two injury substitutions during the match, rued their inability to defend Mushore’s set piece. Coach Paul Benza admitted the free kick was the difference and noted that while bowing out of the competition is disappointing, their focus will now shift to finishing strongly in the league.
Mushore, who was named man of the match, described the victory as a reward for hard work, pointing out that the team had been practising set pieces in training. For Highlanders, the win offers some redemption after last year’s controversial exit, while the quarter-final draw has set up enticing ties, including Bosso’s showdown with Scottland.
