Manica Diamonds’ Mission Redemption

More game time for players such as Anelka Chivandire among others has added firepower to their attack, while the inclusion of Kuda Mahachi (pictured), at least in the team line-up, seems to be restoring players’ lost confidence.

Ray Bande

Senior Reporter

MUTARE-BASED Castle Lager Premiership outfit, Manica Diamonds face a crucial relegation showdown against Chicken Inn FC at Luveve Stadium in Bulawayo tomorrow (Saturday).

The Gem Boys began the 2025 season with promise, even harbouring league title ambitions.

However, their form vanished, and they started dropping vital points.

By MatchDay 23, Manica Diamonds were deep in the relegation zone, lying third from bottom.

A recent change in attitude and form has seen the Mutare outfit posting better results and playing with renewed purpose.

The inclusion of players like Anelka Chivandire and Kuda Mahachi has added firepower to their attack and restored player confidence.

With their recent resurgence, Manica Diamonds will look to capitalise on their newfound form and move further away from the relegation zone.

Tomorrow’s match against Chicken Inn FC will be a crucial test of their resolve.

Their interim coach, Tafadzwa Mashiri, acknowledged that Manica Diamonds must be at their best to avoid relegation.

“We are aware of the task ahead and are prepared to give it our all. Factually, we are in the relegation mix. However, no one desires to be in that position. We will do our best to move out of the murky waters as soon as possible,” he said.

The match against Chicken Inn presents a daunting challenge.

A Chicken Inn win will widen the gap between the two teams, while a Manica Diamonds victory will see them leapfrog Chicken Inn on the standings.

Mashiri acknowledged the challenge, saying: “It is a very tough match against a well-structured side that we are competing with. We desperately need a result to escape the relegation mix.”

He emphasised the importance of discipline.

“For us to get results we need to be very disciplined in all aspects of the game. It will be a tough assignment against the well-oiled and well coached side. We really need to be at our best in terms of both approach and application. The game plan has to be spot on. We anticipate a very tough contest,” he said.

To their credit, Manica Diamonds recently rediscovered the thrill of victory, beating TelOne away from home, followed by another away win against FC Platinum.

Regarding Mahachi’s recent inclusion in the line-up, Mashiri said: “There are positive signs. I had a talk with him, and we agreed to push harder for the remainder of the season to create a memorable picture.”

Mashiri reflected on their Chibuku first-round tie win against FC Platinum, saying: “Cup games are tricky; form books often don’t apply. It is about seizing the moment, and I am happy we did just that. The beauty of cup tournaments lies in the fewer games required to become champions – just four matches. This is a motivational factor in itself.”