Sihlangu sink Ocean Stars

MABBANE – The Eswatini’s national football team, Sihlangu Semnikati, is one step closer to qualifying for the 2025 AFCON group stages after defeating Somalia in Morocco on Wednesday evening.

The Dominic Kunene side secured a crucial 3-0 victory over Somalia in Morocco during their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match on Wednesday evening. The team’s goals came from Richards Bay midfielder Justice Figuareido, Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa and Mbabane Swallows player Kwakhe ‘Stopper’ Thwala, who scored his first international goal for the team.

Despite Somalia’s lower FIFA ranking, the match proved not to be an easy win for Sihlangu Semnikati. The second round fixture will take place on Tuesday at Mbombela Stadium in South Africa. The Times Sports Desk has provided player ratings following the impressive win.

1. Ncamiso ‘Mbhonyo’ Dlamini: The Sihlangu Semnikati goalkeeper had a relatively quiet night, as the Somalian team did not mount a significant challenge. The only save he was required to make came in the second half, but it was ultimately ruled out due to an offside call. 6/10 2 Sibonelo Sibandze:

The Young Buffaloes’ right-back, making his debut for the national team in this game, showcased impressive speed and agility. He was quick to engage in challenges and effectively carried the ball up the field. A notable highlight of his performance was a key assist on Sabelo Ndzinisa’s second goal. Throughout the match, the right-back demonstrated his potential by contributing to both defence and offence, marking a strong first appearance for the national team. 8/10

3. Mcolisi Marcelo Manana: Marcelo delivered an outstanding performance on both ends of the pitch, particularly in the first half, where he displayed excellent chemistry with Justice Figuareido. Although he adopted a more reserved approach in the second half, his overall contribution was strong, making it a successful day for him. 7/10

4. Sibongakonkhe Silenge: The tall defender was solidly consistent throughout the match, effectively stifling the Somali strikers’ efforts. His dominance was evident as he won both ground and aerial duels, while also adeptly clearing any threats that came his way. 7.5

5. Simanga Stina Masangane: Much like Silenge, the Royal Leopard defender, put in a solid performance throughout the match. He combined well with his teammates, contributing to a strong defensive line that communicated effectively and maintained a clean sheet. 7.5

6 Sifiso Matse: Matse delivered a hardworking, industrious performance as a crucial link between the back four and the rest of the team. His valuable interceptions and commanding presence in the midfield were instrumental in Dominic Kunene’s side’s dominance during the match. As the team captain, Matse demonstrated his leadership and determination, battling for possession and offering support in defence. 7 Justice Figuareido: After being reintegrated into the line-up following a brief absence, the player proved to be a persistent threat throughout the match, particularly in the first half. The Somalia defence struggled to contain him, and his efforts culminated in Sihlangu’s first goal, which was a result of his initial shot. Overall, his performance was outstanding and had a significant impact on the team’s success. 8/10

8. Kwakhe Thwala: The Mbabane Swallows’ versatile player demonstrated an energetic presence from the start, confidently engaging with the ball and working tirelessly in the midfield. Although he occasionally lost possession due to moments of carelessness, he ultimately delivered a strong performance. His efforts were capped off with a well-executed shot from outside the box, leaving the Somali goalkeeper little chance to save it. 8/10

10. Mxolisi ‘Kudus’ Mkhonto: The boxto-box midfielder, who partnered with Kwakhe as a number 8, played a pivotal role in maintaining the cohesion of Sihlangu’s midfield. He demonstrated excellent game awareness, effectively won possession and distributed the ball well. His fearlessness in tackling and ability to support defenders by breaking up Somali attacks were key elements of his strong performance. The midfielder also combined effectively with Sifiso Matse in the centre and contributed an assist for the team’s third goal. 8/10

9. Sabelo ‘Sikhali ‘Ndzinisa:

However, his performance improved as the game progressed, and he ultimately demonstrated his killer instinct by scoring the team’s second goal with a well-executed header off a cross from Sibonelo Sibandze. Later in the match, he had another opportunity to score but narrowly missed the target. 7/10

11. Bongwa ‘Logwaja’ Matsebula: Despite the team’s possession advantage, the Buffaloes player had a relatively quiet game, with only occasional glimpses of his usual dynamic play style. He was substituted in the 60th minute, making way for attacking midfielder Thubelihle Mavuso. 6/10

SUBSTITUTES

1. Mthunzi Mkhontfo: Upon entering the game in the 69th minute, the inventive midfielder made a significant impact on the match. His explosive overlapping runs and well-executed crosses posed a considerable threat to the host’s defence. 7/10

2. Thubelihle ‘Messi’ Mavuso: The Nsingizini Hotspurs player made his debut in this match, coming on as a substitute for Bongwa Matsebula. Although he didn’t have a significant impact on the proceedings, it marked the start of his journey with the team. 6/10

3. Sandile ‘Saviola’ Gamedze: The player entered the match in the 70th minute, replacing Kudus. Although he had a few touches on the ball, he was unable to make a significant impact during his time on the field. 6/10

4. Ayanda ‘Gandanganda’ Gadlela: Too late to make an impact as he came on in the 86th minute.

5. Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini: The national team midfielder came on at the same time as Gandanganda.