‘Dovos’ dominate Ingwenyama Cup finals

MBABANE – The man for the big occasion.

This is the story of renowned International Federation of Football Association (FIFA)-accredited referee Thembinkosi ‘Dovos’ Dlamini who has officiated in the last three finals of the prestigious Ingwenyama Cup sponsored by Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle and Accident Fund (SMVAF). With the COVID-19 pandemic causing a three-year hiatus, the highly anticipated tournament finals return on Sunday, pitting defending champions Green Mamba against three-time champions Mbabane Swallows at Somhlolo National Stadium. To ensure fan attendance, the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) office, led by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kenneth Makhanya, released 7 000 tickets yesterday morning for the event that blends football and culture.

Officiate

Since 2018, ‘Dovos’ has been selected to officiate at every Ingwenyama Cup final. Throughout these years, he has overseen matches involving top Eswatini clubs such as Mbabane Swallows, Royal Leopard, Mbabane Highlanders and Young Buffaloes. Known for his strict officiating style, the experienced referee has been at the centre of high-profile matches, including the 2020 final between Green Mamba and Mbabane Highlanders; the 2019 decider featuring Young Buffaloes and Mbabane Highlanders; and the Mbabane Swallows versus Royal Leopard showdown.

With the highly-anticipated final drawing near, speculation about the centre referee appointment continues to grow. A source within the refereeing camp has indicated that the strict referee, who has officiated the Ingwenyama Cup finals since 2018, is unlikely to be selected for this prestigious role this time around.

“Letticia Viana is a favourite contender for officiating the Ingwenyama Cup finals,” revealed the source.