Highlanders Dealt Major Blow Ahead of Bikita Minerals Clash as Key Midfield Duo Suspended
Highlanders FC have been hit with a significant setback ahead of their highly anticipated midweek fixture against Bikita Minerals at Barbourfields Stadium. Influential central midfielders Mason Mushore and Melikhaya Ncube will both miss the encounter due to suspension following an accumulation of yellow cards.
Mushore, who has emerged as one of Highlanders’ top performers this season, has been instrumental in maintaining balance in the midfield. His ability to break up opposition play and transition the ball forward has been key to the team’s recent form.
Melikhaya Ncube, a dependable and consistent presence in the middle of the park, has also been a crucial figure in head coach Kelvin Kaindu’s tactical setup. Ncube’s vision and composure have often allowed Highlanders to control tempo and dominate possession, particularly in tough fixtures.
With both midfield anchors unavailable, Kaindu faces a selection dilemma. The Zambian tactician is expected to turn to other squad members to fill the void, most notably Gillian Nyathi and Darlington Mkuli. Both players recently returned from injury and may be thrown straight into action. Another option is Marvin Sibanda, who has had limited minutes so far this campaign but could be called upon to step up in the absence of the regular starters.
The fixture against Bikita Minerals comes at a crucial time, as Highlanders aim to keep pace with the league’s frontrunners. The absence of Mushore and Ncube could disrupt the team’s rhythm, but it also presents an opportunity for fringe players to make their mark.
Elsewhere in the Premier Soccer League, several other clubs are also dealing with key suspensions ahead of Matchday Nine. TelOne will be without their captain Frank Makarati, while FC Platinum are set to miss influential midfielder Hagiazo Magaya. Yadah’s Marvelous Faranando, ZPC Kariba’s Collin Mleya, and Green Fuel’s Collen Mujuru are also ruled out of midweek action.
Matchday Nine Fixtures
Wednesday
- Caps United vs FC Platinum – Rufaro Stadium
- Green Fuel vs Dynamos – Green Fuel Arena
- Triangle vs ZPC Kariba – Gibbo Stadium
- Ngezi Platinum Stars vs Yadah – Baobab Stadium
- Chicken Inn vs TelOne – Luveve Stadium
- Kwekwe United vs Simba Bhora – Bata Stadium
Thursday
- Scottland vs Herentals – Rufaro Stadium
- MWOS vs Manica Diamonds – Ngoni Stadium
As Highlanders prepare to host Bikita Minerals, all eyes will be on how Kaindu reshuffles his midfield and whether the team can maintain momentum despite the absence of two key players. Will the replacements rise to the occasion or will the setback cost Bosso valuable points at home?
