Dynamos Edge Highlanders in Penalty Thriller to Reach Chibuku Final

Dynamos advanced to the 2025 Chibuku Super Cup final after edging Highlanders 5–3 on penalties following a 1–1 draw at a raucous Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.

The defending champions started brightly and took an early lead through Emmanuel Jalai, whose electric volley in the 15th minute flew past the Highlanders goalkeeper and sent the away end into celebrations. Dynamos’ early dominance saw them control possession and create the clearer openings, but chances were at a premium as Highlanders regrouped.

Highlanders threatened on a few occasions before the interval, with Andrew Mbeba and Never Rauzhi forcing sharp saves from Dynamos goalkeeper Prince Tafiremutsa. The visitors went into the break narrowly ahead, but the game opened up after halftime.

Dynamos came close to doubling their advantage on the hour when Felix Hammond’s fierce effort smacked the crossbar, a moment that might have settled the contest. Instead it proved a warning, Highlanders grew into the match and, in the 69th minute, Melikhaya Ncube finished a swift move to level matters and breathe new life into the home side.

As the clock ran down both teams searched for a late winner. The final quarter produced end to end football but neither side could find the decisive touch, and after 90 minutes the score remained deadlocked at 1–1.

The tie was decided from the spot. Dynamos kept their nerve, converting all five of their penalties. Highlanders’ campaign ended agonisingly when Prince Ndlovu saw his effort crash off the upright, handing Dynamos a 5–3 shootout victory and sparking jubilation among their travelling supporters.

Coach Kelvin Kaindu applauded his players’ composure under pressure, saying the team showed the mindset required to defend their title and progress to the final. Dynamos will now face Triangle United in the final after Triangle beat MWOS in the other semifinal.

The win keeps Dynamos’ bid to retain the Chibuku Super Cup alive and gives Kaindu’s side momentum heading into the showpiece, but it will also raise questions for Highlanders, who will rue missed chances and the cruel randomness of a shootout.