Title holders Simba Bhora head into their Matchday 32 fixture against Highlanders FC knowing that anything less than a win could cost them the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title. The defending champions have endured a rough spell, failing to secure a single victory in their last five outings — drawing three and losing two, including defeats to CAPS United and Ngezi Platinum.
Since their early exit from the CAF Champions League preliminary round against Hotspurs Nsingizini, Simba Bhora’s momentum has dipped noticeably. However, a week’s rest — following their elimination from the Chibuku Super Cup by Dynamos earlier in the tournament — may have come at the perfect time. The break has given the squad a chance to regroup, refocus, and reignite their title defence as they return to home turf with renewed energy.
Highlanders, meanwhile, have also struggled for consistency. The Bulawayo giants have gone five league games without a win, recording four draws and a defeat to FC Platinum, along with a recent Chibuku Super Cup semi-final loss to Dynamos. Despite their struggles, Highlanders remain steady but dangerously close to the drop zone — just two points clear of relegation — making this a must-not-lose encounter for them.
For Simba Bhora, this is more than just a league fixture. Failure to collect maximum points would all but hand the title to Scottland FC, who face lowly Kwekwe United in what looks like a routine win. Expect Simba Bhora to come out firing, sharp in attack and disciplined in defence as they push for survival in the title race.
