Benjani Mwaruwari doubtful as Highlanders target PSL derby double

Highlanders coach Benjani Mwaruwari remains uncertain for the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League meeting with Chicken Inn on August 19, as Bosso seek a second victory over their city rivals in four days. Highlanders won Sunday’s Chibuku Super Cup first-round tie 3-1 on penalties after the match finished 0-0.

Mwaruwari was admitted to hospital on Sunday and did not attend the cup match. He was released later that day and returned to training on Monday and Tuesday, but assistants Mkhokheli Dube and Bekithemba Ndlovu continued to oversee much of the work while the head coach eased back into his duties.

Highlanders’ acting chairman Kindman Ndlovu said the club was pleased with Mwaruwari’s recovery and with the squad’s return to preparations. The coach’s final involvement in the derby is expected to be determined nearer kick-off.

The match comes during a difficult period for the club. Highlanders players had refused to train before Sunday’s cup fixture because of unpaid salaries, with two months’ wages outstanding. They received US$250 each after asking for US$500, but still played and eliminated Chicken Inn after goalkeeper Aaron “Arusha” Ngwenya helped Bosso survive the penalty shoot-out.

The club hopes its two forthcoming home games, against Chicken Inn and Herentals on Sunday, will help raise money towards the salary arrears. Ndlovu has also called on supporters to attend the midweek derby, arguing that beating the same opponent again so soon will require strong backing from the stands.

Highlanders enter the league match seventh with 37 points from 25 games. Their record is eight wins, 13 draws and four defeats, with 23 goals scored and 19 conceded. Recent league results include two wins, two draws and one loss, although the latest was a 1-0 defeat away to Kariba. A second success over Chicken Inn would allow Bosso to build on their cup resilience while continuing their league campaign from mid-table.