Another striker pulls off Sihlangu squad
IT’S another blow for Sihlangu as they will be minus two strikers during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Libya and Cape Verde on Friday and November 21 at Mbombela Stadium.
Manzini Sea Birds striker Mthokozisi Gwebu has pulled out of the nation’s pride after Richards Bay striker Justice Figareido who has not fully recovered from his ankle injury.
A source close to the matter revealed that Ngwenya has been held up by work commitments.
“The player has left the camp after he was recalled at his workplace and he won’t travel with the squad to Mbombela,” the source said.
Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Marketing and Communications Officer Muzi Radebe said he was still to get updates from the ongoing camp from Dominic Kunene when contacted.
“I am yet to get updates from the camp from the head coach and I can be in a better position to comment once I get something official,” he said.
The senior national side is expected to leave the country on Wednesday for Mbombela where they will have a six-day camp in preparation for the opening two Group D fixtures.
The nation’s pride will be playing on a neutral venue to the CAF Ban on the Somhlolo National Stadium and Mavuso Sports Centre which was imposed in 2018 after the two venues were deemed unfit to host category A matches.
A source close to the matter revealed that the former Kaizer Chiefs striker will be the second assistant coach for the ‘Stingers’ as United is fondly known.
“Talks between the team and Dlamini are at an advanced stage. He is expected to be part of the technical bench during their next match. He has been identified as a perfect candidate to beef up the current technical bench,” the source said.
United are currently under the mentorship of former Ludzeludze Killers coach Mphumelelo ‘Mapho’ Ngwenya who is assisted by Zimbabwean mentor Julius Chakupewa.
Ezulwini United Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Nsindiso Tsabedze said he had yet to learn about the news.
“I haven’t heard anything from the Directors and I can be in a better position to comment once I get something official from them,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dlamini could not be drawn for comment on the matter at the time of compiling this report. He has previously worked with Malanti Chiefs as an assistant Coach. United will take on Buffaloes in their league match after the FIFA week.
The team recently announced E650 000 worth of sponsorship from Luphohlo Holding (E450 000) and an E200 000 worth of Technical sponsorship with Umbro.