Dembare stumble

Manica Diamonds 1 - 0 Dynamos
Dynamos' hopes of achieving a league and cup double were dealt a significant blow as they fell to Manica Diamonds in a rescheduled Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match at Gibbo Stadium. A first-half free-kick by Brian Chikwenya secured a crucial victory for Manica Diamonds and revived their hopes of contesting the league title with Ngezi Platinum.

Manica Diamonds climbed to second place, trailing the leaders by seven points, while Dynamos slipped to third place, eight points adrift, with five matches remaining. Ngezi Platinum now require nine points from a potential 15 to clinch the title, a target that could be reduced if both Manica Diamonds and Dynamos drop points.

The match was closely contested and entertaining, drawing a sizable crowd. Early in the game, Dynamos striker Eli Ilunga had a close chance in the 9th minute, but his attempt from an acute angle missed the target. Shortly after, Manica Diamonds goalkeeper Tedious Baye swiftly sent the ball upfield, and although Binzi appeared to be fouled inside the box, a direct free-kick was awarded instead, which Chikwenya converted expertly to give the home side the lead.

Dynamos had opportunities to equalize but lacked clinical finishing. The match remained end-to-end, with both sides squandering chances. The second half was equally engaging, with a midfield battle between Ask Rupande and Issa Sadiki captivating fans.

Dynamos coach Genesis Mangombe made a triple tactical substitution, introducing Emmanuel Paga, Emmanuel Ziocha, and Elton Chikona, but Manica Diamonds successfully defended their lead. Manica Diamonds had a chance to double their advantage, but Prince Tafiremutsa made a crucial save to keep Dynamos in the game.

Mangombe expressed his disappointment with the result and attributed the loss to fatigue, having played several games in a short period. He also mentioned concerns about match officials' decisions affecting the game.

Manica Diamonds' assistant coach, Tafadzwa Mashiri, was delighted with the victory, which moved them into second place. He emphasized the importance of collecting as many points as possible during the season and their determination to continue pursuing the title.

Teams

Manica Diamonds: Tedious Baye, Lawrence Masibera, Brian Chikwenya, Kelvin Gwao, Trevor Mavhunga, Liberty Chakoroma, Ask Rupande (Jeffrey Takunda 93min), Bret Amidu (Talent Chamboko 57min), Michael Tapera, Gerald Bhero (Ralph Kawondera 57min), Fortune Binzi

Dynamos: Prince Tafiremutsa, Wilmore Chimbetu, Kevin Moyo (Shadreck Nyahwa 67min), Eli Ilunga (Elton Chikona 61min), Frank Makarati, Junior Makunike, Arthur Musiiwa (Emmanuel Ziocha 61min), Donald Dzvinyai, Keith Madera (Emmanuel Paga 61min), Issa Sadiki, Tanaka Shandirwa (Tinashe Makanda 75min