They’ve done it again—Dynamos, the reigning kings of the Chibuku Super Cup, are back in the final for a record third straight year after surviving a tense penalty shootout against bitter rivals Highlanders.

In a match that had all the ingredients of a classic rivalry—goals, drama, and nerve-shredding penalties—Dynamos held their nerve to win 5–3 in the shootout after the game ended 1–1 in regulation time at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday.

The Harare giants once again showcased their trademark composure in high-stakes moments, outlasting their fiercest rivals in a match that had everything: early fireworks, missed chances, physical battles, and a dramatic shootout. With back-to-back titles already under their belt, Dynamos now stand on the brink of a historic three-peat.

From the opening whistle, Dynamos signaled their intent. In the fourth minute, Emmanuel Jalai combined with Leroy Mavhunga to release Abel Gwatidzo, whose inviting cross went begging. The pressure mounted, and by the 14th minute, Vhusa Ngwenya was fouled just outside the box. Mavhunga’s curling free-kick tested the Highlanders’ defense, but Ariel Sibanda and his wall stood firm.

The breakthrough came moments later. Ngwenya took a quick free-kick near the halfway line, finding Jalai in space. The captain’s first touch was sublime, and his thunderous right-footed volley from distance rocketed into the top corner—an early contender for goal of the tournament.

Highlanders responded with growing confidence. Never Rauzhi’s dangerous cross was cleared, and Atusaye Nyondo’s header in the 34th minute forced a save from Prince Tafiremutsa. Rauzhi followed with a stinging shot that required a full-stretch dive, and just before halftime, Nyondo again tested the Dynamos keeper.

The second half saw Highlanders inject fresh legs with three substitutions. Adeogun fired wide from inside the box, while Dynamos nearly doubled their lead when Issaka Hammond’s tap-in struck the crossbar and Mavhunga’s rebound was blocked.

That missed chance proved costly. Andrew Mbeba found space on the right and delivered a pinpoint cross for Melikhaya Ncube, who rose above the defense to head home the equalizer.

With no extra time in this year’s format, the match went straight to penalties. Dynamos were flawless from the spot—Chiwunga, Jalai, Hammond, Pio, and Gwatidzo all converted with ice-cold precision. Highlanders matched them until the fourth round, but Prince Ndlovu’s effort rattled the crossbar, giving Dynamos the edge. Gwatidzo stepped up and sealed the win, sending the keeper the wrong way and Dynamos into yet another final.

Dynamos Line-Up:

Prince Tafiremutsa (T Makoni 90′), Emmanuel Jalai, Abel Gwatidzo, Clive Mandivei, Issaka Mohammed, Tellmore Pio, Vhusa Ngwenya (T Chiwunga 60′), Shadreck Nyahwa, Frank Agyemang, Felix Hammond, Leroy Mavunga (E Perezo 75′)

Highlanders Line-Up:

Ariel Sibanda, Arthur Ndlovu, Brian Mlotshwa, Reason Sibanda (B Adeogun 46′), Malvern Hativagoni (T Muvuti 46′), Marvin Sibanda (M Ncube 46′), Andrew Mbeba, Never Rauzhi (P Ndlovu 66′), Darlington Mukuli, Luckmore Mutumbi, Atusaye Nyondo (B Ncube 71′)

With the final looming, Dynamos will be eager to complete their treble and further cement their legacy in Zimbabwean football folklore. Dynamos will face Triangle in the final.