Johnson Progress

Hardrock FC secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Scottland FC in the Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final at Rufaro Stadium on Wednesday afternoon, a result that not only sent the Kasongo Boys into the semi-finals but also ended Scottland’s hopes of a historic treble.

The decisive moment came in the 14th minute when Eswatini international Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini fired home from close range, connecting with a brilliant cross from Lenox Mucheto.

It was Hardrock’s first-ever goal against Scottland in three meetings, and it proved enough to settle a tense cup tie.

Hardrock could have doubled their advantage four minutes later when Washington Navaya got past Kevin Moyo, but his effort was straight to Scottland goalkeeper Talbert Shumba.

Reflecting on his side’s first-half dominance, visitors were the more dangerous side in the opening half, creating several chances, though Dlamini’s strike remained the difference at the interval.

Scottland returned from the break with more attacking intent but struggled to turn possession into clear-cut chances as Hardrock’s defence held firm, with Gerald Takwara particularly resolute at the back.

In search of a way back into the game, Scottland introduced Walter Musona and Khama Billiat in the 55th minute, a double substitution that underlined coach Mapeza’s attacking ambition.

Hardrock came close to adding a second in the 59th minute when an unmarked Navaya headed over with Shumba beaten.

The match was temporarily stopped in the 65th minute after Navaya suffered a head injury following a collision with Issaka Mohammed, forcing the big striker to be stretchered off.

As Scottland pushed for an equaliser, Abubakar Moffat was withdrawn for Tymon Machope in the 73rd minute, with the coach looking to inject more attacking threat.

However, Hardrock’s backline refused to buckle.

With four minutes remaining, Scottland won a free-kick in a promising position, but captain Walter Musona’s effort struck the defensive wall.

Hardrock made two late substitutions in the 90th minute, bringing on Wilfred Manzungu and Donald Mudadi to see out the match.

Scottland piled on the pressure in the closing stages, but Hardrock stood firm to secure their place in the semi-finals.

The result carries significant weight for both clubs.

For Hardrock, it marks their first-ever goal against Scottland in three matches, following two league meetings that ended 0-0 at Chahwanda and 2-0 to Scottland at Rufaro.

For Scottland, the defeat brings an abrupt end to their dream of a Treble the League, Chibuku Super Cup, and Munhumutapa Cup.

This is the second year in a row that Scottland have exited the Chibuku Super Cup.

Last year, Highlanders knocked them out 2-2 (2-1 on penalties) after Scottland had led 2-0 through Mureremba and Billiat.

Hardrock now advance to the semi-finals, where they will face FC Hunters, while the other semi-final pits CAPS United against Highlanders.

Scottland, meanwhile, will hope to recover when they host Agama in a league encounter on Saturday, with their eyes also on progression in the CAF Champions League.