2024 Zimbabwe PSL Matchday 11 Review: Manica Diamonds FC claim number one spot

TAWANDA CHARI

HARARE – The eleventh round of the Zimbabwe Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) saw Simba Bhora beating Ngezi Platinum 2-1, and now lie third on the log standings with 20 points. Simba benefited from a late own goal by Kudzidai Chigwida’s own-goal in an otherwise balanced encounter.

At Rufaro Stadium CAPS United edged Yadah 1-0 courtesy of William Manondo’s last minute winner and collected maximum points.

Top spot for Manica Diamonds FC

Manica Diamonds number one on Zimbabwe PSL 2024 table

Manica Diamonds FC supporters cheering their team in the match against Bikita Minerals. [Image: Manica Diamonds FC on X]

Manica Diamonds have orchestrated a remarkable turnaround in the Zimbabwe Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, exhibiting an early redemption arc that has left fans and rivals alike in awe.

Despite stumbling out of the gates with three losses in their first four matches, the Gem Boys have emerged as a force to be reckoned with, clinching victory in their last seven consecutive encounters.

They now lead the league with 22 points after clinching a 1-0 victory against Bikita Minerals at Sakubva Stadium.

Their journey to resurgence has been marked by sheer determination and resilience, epitomizing the essence of football's unpredictability. They were brilliant last season as well but zero wins in 4 had them almost being written off as title contenders.

What sets Manica Diamonds apart so far is their ability to triumph in tightly contested battles, with six 1-0 wins and seven victories secured by a mere one-goal margin. This tenacity has undoubtedly solidified their position as early title contenders within the league.

Image: Manica Diamonds FC on X.

In the same vein, winning by 1 goal margins is not a safe recipe for a title winning team. That is probably the biggest area of concern for Manica Diamonds this year as they try to avoid the predicament Bosso experienced last season when the goals ran dry.

Across the Premier Soccer League there are few goals flying in and every team is not scoring nearly enough so the Gem Boys might be okay if all remains the same.

Manica Diamond's recent form speaks volumes about their spirit, character and mentality. With a single draw punctuating their string of victories, Manica Diamonds might be firmly establishing themselves as a formidable force within the PSL this season.

Elsewhere

Green Fuel secured a narrow 1-0 victory over ZPC Kariba, while Bulawayo Chiefs and Chicken Inn settled for a goalless draw. FC Platinum triumphed 2-0 over Highlanders. The result placed FC Platinum on third place and Highlanders dropped to fourth place on the Castle Lager Premiership table.

Hwange and Arenel Movers battled to a 1-1 draw, while Dynamos and Herentals also ended their clash with a 1-1 stalemate. Chegutu Pirates emerged victorious with a 2-0 win over Telone.