Champions FC Platinum face a stern test in their quest to defend their title when they visit log leaders CAPS United in a potentially explosive premier league encounter at the National Sports Stadium this afternoon.
The Zvishavane-based platinum miners have already lost a match four games into the league race after they fell to Bulawayo giants Highlanders a couple of weeks back.
Another defeat will be a big dent on their title credentials with the traditional giants having had an impressive start to the season so far.
Coach Norman Mapeza is wary of the challenge posed by CAPS United who are yet to lose a match, let alone concede a goal in the league.
"We have been preparing well. We know the challenge. Caps United have been playing well, playing brilliant football. They haven't been conceding. They are well organised in every department. It’s not going to be easy. It’s all about mental strength. We are going to try and get a result against all odds," Mapeza said.
Mapeza has dominated the fixture against CAPS United and his side has not lost to their opponents since 2017.
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CAPS United will be banking on teamwork which has seen five different scorers contributing to the goals in the league race.
The last meeting between the two sides ended in a 2-2 draw back in October. FC Platinum had won the first meeting 3-0 at Mandava Stadium.
“Like I have always said it takes the whole team to win a match and equally the whole team to lose a match. If we have five different scorers in a team then it tells you that it’s a collective responsibility. Scoring is not for strikers alone because as far as I am concerned they also defend so I am happy with the contribution of every member of the team,” he said.
A win for FC Platinum will see them rise to the top of the standings.