Ask Rupande, the versatile utility player for Manica Diamonds FC, is ready to take his game to the next level.
After a breakout 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season, where he played 34 games and scoring once, Rupande is determined to help the Gem Boys fight for honors in the upcoming 2026 Premier Soccer League season.
Rupande’s journey to the top has been a long and winding road.
Starting out as a junior at La Sakubva FC in Mutare in 2009, he went on to join Buffaloes FC in 2018, before moving to Manica Diamonds U19 FC in 2019.
After a stint at Mutare City Rovers FC, interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rupande returned to Manica Diamonds U19 FC in 2022, before being recalled to the senior side in 2023.
Despite being deployed as a left-back in the 2025 season, a position not his natural habitat which is the defensive link, Rupande proved to be a revelation.
His performances earned him a permanent spot in the team, and he played a crucial role in helping Manica Diamonds FC survive relegation
The Gem Boys finished 10th with 41 points from 34 games, winning 8, drawing 17, and losing 9.
They escaped the dreaded chop by a mere 4 points.
”Last season was my best season in the Premier Soccer League in my career,” Rupande said in an exclusive interview with Fanzone. “Despite being a tough campaign for Manica, I was able to play in as many games as possible and contribute to the team’s survival. It was a hard lesson for us, and I believe we should learn from it.”
With a newfound confidence, Rupande is looking to take the Gem Boys to greater heights this season. “This year, we’re targeting a top-four finish.
”We promise our fans that we’ll win as many games as possible and make them proud,” added Rupande.
Manica Diamonds FC fans will be delighted to hear that Rupande is ready to continue where he left off.
The 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League kicks off in March.
