Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu hopes to finally end his wait for a league title in Zimbabwe after narrowly missing out twice in the 2012 and 2013 seasons.

Now in charge of Hardrock Football Club, Kaindu finds himself in a familiar position, with the title race set to be decided on the final day of the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League season.

Hardrock lead the standings on 70 points, two ahead of defending champions Scottland, who have 68 points.

However, the title race has tightened following Hardrock’s goalless draw against Simba Bhora on Saturday, which cost them two crucial points, while Scottland strengthened their challenge with a 4-0 victory over Herentals.

Heading into the final round of fixtures, Hardrock, who are competing in the Zimbabwean top flight for the first time, need a win in their final match to guarantee the league title.

A defeat for Scottland in their last fixture could also hand the Kwekwe-based side the championship, regardless of Hardrock’s result.

However, if Hardrock draw their final match and Scottland win, both teams will finish the season on 71 points. In that scenario, goal difference would favour the defending champions, who currently have a goal difference of +39 compared to Hardrock’s +36.

Kaindu has experienced a similar disappointment before. In 2012 and 2013, while coaching Highlanders, he missed out on the Zimbabwean league title to Dynamos despite both teams finishing level on points, with goal difference separating them.

Speaking to Bola News, Kaindu said he remained confident of finally securing the championship, drawing encouragement from Hardrock’s current form despite the pressure surrounding the title race.

“Of course, the expectations are very high, and that brings pressure on the team, but I am trusting in the Lord and our current form. Belief is key,” he said.

Hardrock will conclude their campaign against Manica Diamonds, knowing that victory is enough to secure the title and end Kaindu’s long wait for league success in Zimbabwe.