The green machine, who temporarily ascended to the top of the log on Saturday, after they beat Chicken Inn 2-1 at Luveve Stadium, enter the match with their heads high, hoping to kill the champions.
On the other hand, DeMbare are bubbling with confidence, as they finally got permission to use Rodrick “The Prince” Mutuma, who was offloaded by South African Premiership side, Bloemfontein Celtic at the start of the year, but failed to feature for the Glamour Boys before the window period.
The towering striker, who failed to land a deal at Moroka Swallows last week, made his return felt when he opened the scoring with a header after 10 minutes in a match DeMbare won against 2-1 over Black Rhinos. On the log, the two local giants are tied on points, but United have a superior goal difference that makes them second, a point behind leaders Highlanders.
Matches between the two sides usually draw a big interest and although no big names are mentioned in the Harare Derby, fans and the players take a loss with so much depression that some have openly wept.
Coaches of both teams have chosen to keep their cards close to chests, saying the better side of the day would win. While it will be thunder in Harare, another derby delight will be unfolding in the City of Kings, where log leaders Highlanders host town fellows, Bantu Rovers.
Rovers do not have much to fight for, as they are not in the running for the championship and remain safe from relegation, but pressure will be on Bosso to maintain their top spot and perhaps clinch the title this season. That would help them avoid past disappointments of being beaten to it on the finishing line. In their last match Bosso beat How Mine 2-1.
Elsewhere, FC Platinum and Shabanie Mine also have the third derby in Zvishavane. Black Rhinos face How Mine, Buffaloes host Chiredzi FC and Harare City have a date with Hwange. Triangle meet Chapungu and ZPC Kariba clash with Chicken Inn.
Post published in: Football