Highlanders FC have paid tribute to the Zimbabwe Football Association for participating in their centenary celebrations and for facilitating an exhibition match against the Warriors at Barbourfields Stadium today.
The match also gives the senior men’s national team an opportunity for a practice session ahead of the Mukuru Four Nations Tournament in Francistown, Botswana, this weekend.
After facing the Warriors this afternoon, Highlanders will also send their Pacific Breeze Southern Region Soccer League side, Bosso90, to participate in the annual Imiklomelo kaDakamela Festival in Nkayi from April 3 to 6.
Bosso chief executive officer Denzil Mnkandla said Highlanders appreciate Zifa’s gesture in bringing the Warriors to the City of Kings and Queens to celebrate the club’s 100th anniversary at Bulawayo’s traditional home of football, Emagumeni.
“We feel honoured that Zifa has recognised this milestone for the club. We truly appreciate their support in celebrating it through the exhibition match. Let’s turn out in our numbers — not only to support Highlanders, but also to give the Warriors a memorable send-off to the Four Nations Tournament in Botswana," he said.
Fans will pay US$3 for the rest of the ground, US$5 for the Grandstand, and US$10 for the VIP Stand.
On participating in the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Festival, Mnkandla said: "Highlanders' history reflects a club deeply rooted in community, culture, and tradition. The club was formed by the grandsons of King Lobengula, and we have always maintained close ties with traditional leadership and events that celebrate them. The club is always present at eMhlahlandlela, and we will certainly be there for Imiklomelo kaDakamela, celebrating alongside the Nkayi community.”
However, he said that due to the tight Premier Soccer League schedule, Highlanders will not send the senior team to Nkayi. Desmond Ntini, the festival’s event organiser, confirmed Highlanders’ participation in the festival.
- Big send-off for Cont Mhlanga
- Big send-off for Cont Mhlanga
- SUPER SUNDAY!….as Dembare visits Barbourfields
- Inside sport: Send the hooligans to jail
Keep Reading
He added that Cricket Emakhaya, an organisation promoting the game in rural communities, will also take part in the event.
"Cricket Emakhaya will host our trademark soccer match between Bosso and other teams such as Nkayi United. What makes this even more special is that we are celebrating Bosso at 100, and what better way to do it than in Nkayi during Imiklomelo kaDakamela," Ntini said.
