Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
FOR a team that began the season with lofty ambitions of winning the Castle Lager Premiership championship, Manica Diamonds now find themselves in a precarious position, battling to avoid relegation.
Somewhere along the 2025 season journey, Manica Diamonds lost its reputation as a serious title contender, instead, becoming the subject of ridicule as it dropped points consistently, even in unexpected matches.
This led to changes in the team’s technical department setup.
Currently, the Gem Boys face the embarrassing prospect of relegation and potential loss of status as a Castle Lager Premiership outfit.
Nevertheless, the Chibuku Super Cup quarterfinal stage offers a chance for redemption, allowing the diamond miners of Mutare to restore their pride, provided they navigate their way to the final, and potentially win the tournament.
On Sunday, Manica Diamonds host an unpredictable Triangle FC at Sakubva Stadium in a Chibuku Super Cup quarterfinal encounter.
The match starts at 2pm, and the winner on Sunday, will go into the hat for the semi-final draw.
Manica Diamonds coach, Tafadzwa Mashiri, acknowledges that the Chibuku Super Cup competition presents an opportunity for his team to reassert itself in the league.
Mashiri is relying on his players’ understanding of the importance of progressing in the cup competition.
“This is a chance for us to play in Africa. Performing well in the Chibuku Super Cup can redeem our indifferent season. In cup games, form does not always dictate the outcome of games, so we must prepare thoroughly to advance,” said Mashiri, adding that his players appreciate the significance of the game and are committed to progressing.
However, he is also aware that their opponents, Triangle, are not to be underestimated.
Triangle has a history of performing well in cup competitions, particularly the Chibuku Super Cup, which they have previously won.
And Mashiri is cognisant of this ahead of Sunday’s match.
“Triangle is a good side capable of beating any side at any given venue. Both the coach and the team have a good history in this tournament. We need to respect them. As a team, we are aiming to do better than we did last season,” he said.
Mashiri is praying for the quick recovery of injured utility players, Lawrence Masibhera (hamstring) and Jeffrey Takunda (groin).
In 2018, Triangle secured their maiden major trophy,defeating Harare City 2-0 in the final at Gibbo Stadium.
Second-half goals from captain, Ralph Kawondera and
winger, Phineas Bamusi sealed the victory in front of their home fans.
Back then, Triangle were worthy winners, with the Chibuku Super Cup triumph capping a remarkable season for coach, TauraiMangwiro and his team, which also finished strongly in the league, securing fourth place ahead of giants, CAPS United and Highlanders.
