Harare City will begin their defence of the Chibuku Super Cup with a tricky first round date against Border Strikers in two weeks’ time.

According to the draw conducted in the capital on Monday, the top eight teams in the championship race at the halfway mark, were seeded at the draw and will also be at home in the first round matches.

Harare giants Dynamos were paired against How Mine.

Interestingly, the two teams were also drawn against each other in last year’s first round.

Delta Corporation executives such as Maxen Karombo, Patricia Murambinda and Chibuku Brand Manager Karen Dhliwayo, club representatives, some coaches and a handful of supporters attended the draw.

This year’s tournament could be the last season in which the $75 000 knockout tournament would be staged by PSL who signed an initial three-year contract with Chibuku.

The contract could be extended.

Harare City coach Moses Chunga said they were under pressure as the holders.

“It is not going to be easy because we are the defending champions and we have to prepare well,” said Chunga.

“The pressure is starting to mount because we have nearly half the team out with injuries and now we have a depleted side, as we have long-term injuries to defenders Arnold Chivheya, Crispen Dickson, Munyaradzi Diro Nyenye and midfielder Learnmore Muyambo.

“They (Border Strikers) are a tough team and it is unfortunate they are in that position due to financial problems and you have to be at your best to beat them.”

Border Strikers secretary-general Rodlet Chigwinya said they had nothing to lose.

“I think we have been drawn against a good side and they are the holders, but the good thing is we have managed to pick three points against Harare City so we are geared to win against them and progress,” he said.