It’s going to be ‘war’ – Ally Big stars out of semi-finals
MBABANE – “This match will be a significant encounter, much like a war.” These were the words of Mbabane Highlanders Managing Director (MD) Chief Ally Kgomongwe ahead of the Ingwenyama Cup epic semi-finals clash, with sworn-rivals Mbabane Swallows penned for the iconic Somhlolo National Stadium today. The capital city giants will lock horns in the second semi-finals in pursuit of a spot in the finals of this season’s edition.
It is worth mentioning that this mother of all derbies in the country will be preceded by the forces games between defending champions Green Mamba and Young Buffaloes.
The South African businessman and politician revealed that the team had diligently prepared for the game in Pretoria, and the players had made a sincere promise to give their best effort to secure a victory. Kgomongwe kindly urged for games to be played without violence, appealing to the players to avoid provocative tackles and uphold fair play during the match. “We aim to let our performance on the field speak for itself, as actions often carry more weight than words.” Kgomongwe said.
When asked about potential incentives for winning the significant derby, he humbly responded, “My business associates have kindly offered some incentives for the players if they emerge victorious.” He also mentioned that a win for Highlanders would be a delightful pre-birthday celebration, as he is set to celebrate his birthday on Tuesday, March 12.
Furthermore, he shared that after the game, the players would return to South Africa, where they had been graciously offered complimentary accommodation in Vaal. There, they would gather to celebrate his birthday in a modest and joyful manner.
Meanwhile, Umkhonto KaShaka General Manager (GM) Sandile ‘Beyond 2000’ Zwane said they could not loss against Highlanders as their lives ‘depended’ on its outcome. “Our life hangs on this encounter.” The former national team manager said.
Zwane emphasised that it was a monumental game for soccer fans in Eswatini, and they were committed to delivering a spectacular performance. “Let’s commemorate the game with reverence and without disturbances. Emerging victorious in this encounter would hold great significance for the Swallows family, and we pledge to exert ourselves to the fullest and exhibit our best. Our very existence hinges on this game,” he added.
He further conveyed the team’s dedication to honouring the late Victor ‘Maradona’ Gamedze, a pioneer in the establishment of this prestigious tournament.
MBABANE – A big blow! This is the story of Young Buffaloes, Mbabane Swallows and Green Mamba, who will be missing players during the Ingwenyama Cup semi-finals today.
The Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF) Ingwenyama Cup semi-finals derbies will take place at the iconic Somhlolo National Stadium. The opening match will feature defending champions Green Mamba, facing off against Young Buffaloes as a ‘curtain-raiser’ at 1pm. The highly anticipated main game between traditional rivals Mbabane Highlanders and Mbabane Swallows will ignite the stage at 3:30pm.
According to recent developments, the team most affected by injuries is Amathole Ezinyathi, with three players set to miss the Ingwenyama Cup semi-finals today. The injured players include versatile player Siboniso ‘Gaxa’ Ngwenya, who sustained an injury during a league game against Nsingizini Hotspurs two weeks ago, as well as Mpendulo ‘Mpethar’ Dlamini and Sifiso Maseko.
Umkhonto KaShaka will also be without their new player Albert Nkosana, who recently joined from Nsingizini Hotspurs and has quickly become an integral part of the team.
Other two players that won’t be available for the team are Felix ‘Fela’ Badenhorst and Manqoba ‘Nciba’ Vilakati, who are also nursing injuries. ‘Inyoka Eluhlazane’ will be witout their enterprising winger Njabulo ‘Magwegwe’ Magagula, who has been sidelined for the past four league games, due to
Players likely to miss Ingwenyama Cup semi-finals
1. Mpendulo ‘Mpethar’ Dlamini – Young Buffaloes
Sifiso ‘Tjovitjo’ Maseko – Young Buffaloes
Siboniso ‘Gaxa’ Ngwenya - Young Buffaloes
Albert Nkosana – Mbabane Swallows
Felix ‘Fela’ Badenhorst – Mbabane Swallows
Manqoba ‘Nciba’ Vilakati – Mbabane Swallows
Njabulo ‘Magwegwe’ Magagula – Green Mamba (may be available) 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
a knee injury. However, sources within the Correctional Services side have revealed that the former Vovovo player has resumed light training and may be available for the upcoming match against their fierce rivals.
Mbabane Highlanders, on the other hand, will boast a full squad, led by Captain Khanyakwezwe ‘Beer’ Shabalala. Some players, including Shabalala, were rested in their recent MTN Premier League game against Manzini Sea Birds last Sunday, ensuring they are well-prepared for the Ingwenyama Cup semi-finals.
Mbabane Highlanders Public Relations Officer (PRO) Kenneth Dlamini said the Mbabane giants were going into the game with a fully strength squad.
The sixth edition of the tournament carries a E1.4 million champion prize. It also carries the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup ticket. Meanwhile, teams in the culture competitions carry prizes of up to E75 000.