Caps United could bag their fifth top-flight league championship in their next match if two results go their way.
BY HENRY MHARA
Leonard Tsipa’s solitary strike in their match against Harare City on Saturday, coupled with Highlanders’ defeat to Tsholotsho on the same day, left the Green Machine within touching distance of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League championship trophy.
They are now in a much stronger position to add to their 1979, 1996 and 2004 successes.
With 57 points, United have a two-point lead over FC Platinum, who squeezed into second after their 2-0 win at Chapungu.
This means Caps United can wrap up the title in their next match, against Ngezi Platinum, at the National Sports Stadium.
In order for that to happen, they would have to beat the rejuvenated Tonderai Ndiraya-coached side and hope Highlanders beat FC Platinum away at Mandava Stadium on the same day.
A draw in Zvishavane could be enough as well, but only if Caps United take all three points in their match.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Such a scenario would be ideal for coach, Lloyd Chitembwe and his team as it would mean they avoid the final fixture anxieties in a match against Chapungu at Ascot Stadium.
It would also mean that the success-starved Green Machine supporters would celebrate the title with their team in their own backyard.
But everything could go up in smoke if they fail to win, while FC Platinum defeat Bosso.
Such a scenario would mean the title would be decided on the last day of the campaign.
FC Platinum have the best chance to wrest it from Caps United, but a two-point gap between them means the platinum miners cannot afford anything less than six points in the last two matches.
Mapeza takes his team to Bulawayo for a date against relegation-threatened Tsholotsho on the last day.
As for Highlanders, they have themselves to blame.
They initially looked like the only team who could pip Caps United to the title, but lost significant ground when they lost to Tsholotsho.
Bosso now have to beat FC Platinum and Hwange and hope that Caps United lose both their matches.
As it stands, it is Caps United’s to lose and their performance in the last two matches showed the character of champions, where they managed to grind out results.
A memorable comeback from 3-0 down to force a 3-3 draw against Dynamos in the big Harare Derby was followed up by a scrappy 1-0 victory over Harare City at the weekend.
Top three’s remaining fixtures
Caps United (57 points) — Ngezi Platinum (H), Chapungu (A) FC Platinum (55 points) — Highlanders (H), Tsholotsho (A) Highlanders (53 points) — FC Platinum (A), Hwange (H)
