Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
AFTER surviving the relegation dogfight on the last day of the season, Mutare Premier Soccer League side, Manica Diamonds, faces the real risk of getting their 2026 season dampened early in the first three fixtures when they face teams that have the domestic top-flight league title in their cabinets. In the opening round of the Castle Lager Premiership fixtures, Manica Diamonds face last year’s champions, Simba Bhora at Sakubva Stadium, before the Mutare diamond miners travel to Zvishavane for a date against four-time top-flight league winners, FC Platinum at Mandava Stadium.[1]
The Tafadzwa Mashiri-coached outfit will be back at home against reigning Castle Lager Premiership side, Scottland FC.
These three matches will give a stern analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of Manica Diamonds Class of 2026 as well as have a bearing on how the team will fare in the next season.
Mashiri acknowledged that the 2026 season promises to be tough and the opening three fixtures will be a test of character.
“We have very tough opening fixtures where we will be facing two former champions and reigning champions in our first three matches. It will be a real test of character and strength.
“We need to start well for us to end well. In fact, our first 10 matches are very difficult ones. If we play well, we will we will have shaped our season.
“Look at what MWOS did last season, they had a very strong start to the season, and it helped them a lot as the season progressed until they clinched a runners-up spot.
“So, as Manica Diamonds, we are looking forward to a very strong start to the season in order to avoid fighting relegation as we did last season,” he said.
Mashiri thanked the league authorities for releasing the fixtures early.
“This coming 2026 season promises to be very competitive. Thumbs up to PSL for releasing fixtures early. It helps for planning purposes,” he said.
However, many of the club’s followers are worried about lack of information on how their team is preparing for the season ahead.
Apart from the engagement of Mashiri on a substantive basis, there is little, if anything, that has been said about the list of players that the team has secured so far.
If anything, reports of some of their key players who want to leave for greener pastures are awash on social media.
Mashiri said they are working round the clock to assemble a competitive team.
“The first port of call will be to assemble a team that will compete well. We need to be very realistic in setting our targets as a club. This upcoming season should be one to stabilise things such that we find our feet.
“More effort should be channelled towards fostering a culture of teamwork, hard work, and unparalleled commitment to the badge. At no given time should anyone doubt our commitment as a team,” he said.
Mashiri said he is looking forward to ensure that they keep a 100 percent record at their home ground – Sakubva Stadium.
“We also need to reignite a culture of making Sakubva our fortress. Our primary season goal is to be a competitive team that does not fight relegation.
“Recruitment is going on smoothly thus far we should make a good blend of old and new players who will join us. Yes, we have started our recruitment but no names yet,” said Mashiri.
