Dynamos knocked out of Chibuku Super Cup

DYNAMOS' hopes of retaining the Chibuku Super Cup were dashed on Sunday after they were knocked out by FC Hunters following a 4-1 penalty shootout defeat after the two sides had drawn 1-1 in regulation time.

The two teams played to a goalless first half before Dynamos broke the deadlock in the 74th minute.

FC Hunters responded 13 minutes later to level the score and force the quarter-final clash into a penalty shootout after neither side could find a winner during the remaining minutes.

FC Hunters proved more composed from the spot, converting four of their penalties, while Dynamos managed just one.

The defeat ended Dynamos' hopes of winning the tournament for a fourth consecutive year and saw FC Hunters advance to the semi-finals, joining Highlanders and CAPS United.

The latest setback represents another disappointment for the Harare giants, who had been targeting a strong run in the knockout competition.

Speaking after the match, Dynamos coach Aristica Cioaba apologised to the club's supporters for the early exit.

"I really want to apologise to the Dynamos fans for the result. The cup is important to the club, they have won it three times before.

"It's all part of football but I am also disappointed," said Cioaba.

The defeat also means Dynamos will, for the first time since 2023, finish the season without a trophy after they were also eliminated from the ZIFA Munhumutapa Challenge Cup.

With their league title hopes already over, Dynamos are now fighting to secure a top-four finish.