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The Harare Derby is still alive and kicking, with Dynamos and Caps United sharing points in a thrilling 1-1 draw. Despite both teams being immersed in the relegation zone, the match was played in true derby spirit, with fans from both sides turning out in numbers.
The match was a closely contested affair, with Dynamos playing with a lot of energy and sharpness in their passing. However, they created precious little in front of the goal, particularly in the first half. Caps United struggled to match Dynamos’ tempo for long periods but gained momentum late on, when they could and should have won the match.
The second half started on an electric note, with Dynamos breaking the deadlock from the penalty spot through skipper Emmanuel Jalai six minutes after the break. However, Jalai could have doubled the lead a few minutes later but fluffed his lines. Caps United restored parity 20 minutes after the break through a sublime finish by Kundai Benyu, his first strike in the local league.
The goal triggered song and dance among the Caps faithful, who had been silenced by Jalai’s strike. Both teams are still finding their feet under new management, with Dynamos’ Saul Chaminuka and Caps United’s Ian Bakala working to instill their philosophies.
Chaminuka said he expected his team to win the match but was pleased with the way his players responded to his methods. “We need time together,” he said. “Maybe after a month, that’s when we will be ready to produce what we are working towards. But so far, I am happy.”
Bakala, on the other hand, said he was happy that his team didn’t lose, although he felt they could have won. “The priority is to get out of the relegation zone and ease the pressure,” he said. Both coaches are looking forward to the transfer window to strengthen their squads, with Chaminuka wanting to fortify his defense and improve his attack.
The draw means both teams will have to continue their push to escape the relegation zone. Despite the challenges, fans left the stadium with hope restored that their teams can still make a mark this season.
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