Upsets, drama in MoMo Cup finals
MBABANE – The curtain finally fell on the inaugural 2022 MoMo Cup this past Sunday at Somhlolo National Stadium.
The tournament, which saw rookies Nsingizini Hotspurs emerging winners ahead of seasoned campaigners Mbabane Highlanders and Moneni Pirates, had its share of best memories and controversies.
Below are some of the moments the Times of Eswatini Sports Desk noted..
‘Manyovu’ disappoints on debut
After his much publicised transfer saga to Mbabane Highlanders, former Royal Leopard and Eswatini international winger Bonginkhosi ‘Manyovu’ Dlamini failed to live up to expectations.
The former Angolan top side erstwhile player lasted for 58 minutes in his debut game against Moneni Pirates in the 2022 MoMo Cup played at Somhlolo National Stadium on Sunday, in which they lost 5-4 after penalties. He lost possession cheaply and failed to get the basics right. Highlanders coach Dumsani ‘DU’ Makhanya also gave former striker Mfanufikile ‘Fash’ Ndzimandze his first run and he did not disappoint considering that he was in the football wilderness for almost two years.
Technincal area roofing fixed
After we reported that the Somhlolo National Stadium was damaged, it was fixed on the day of the MoMo Cup finals. It is commendable effort but we do appeal that fans, teams alike must take care of the country’s soccer Mecca.
Referees change kits
The match officials led by lady referee Letticia Vienna, who were officiating in the final of the MoMo Cup had to change their blue macron kit and donned the yellow one as it clashed with the colours of champions Nsingizini Hotspurs. The referees started the game wearing the blue kit but in the second half they came clad on the yellow kit to avoid confusion as the game was played under floodlights.
‘Bull’ supporters cheer Nsingizini
Mbabane Highlanders supporters after Moneni Pirates knocked them out of the MoMo Cup after penalties joined forces with MTN Premier League rookies and MoMo Cup champions Nsingizini Hotspurs supporters in the finals against the ‘Sea Robbers’ of Moneni. Also spotted in the champions’ stand was ‘Eswatini football’and Manzini Wanderers self-proclaimed number one supporter Sidumo Ngwenya.
‘Broom celebration’ for Siza
Former Mbabane Swallows and Jomo Cosmos striker, now Nsingizini Hotspurs assistant coach Siza ‘King Pele’Dlamini, stole our attention as he marched with supporters carrying a broom in celebration after his side was crowned the champions of the inaugural 2022 MoMo Cup. They defeated Moneni Pirates 2-1 after extra time at Somhlolo National Stadium on Sunday.
Young fan watches keyboard player
Ayoung football fan decided to sit next to a key board player to watch closer as he hits the notes during renowned Gospel singer Phathwakahle’s performance. The Gospel star was part of the line-up to entertain the supporters during the day’s football festival, courtesy of MTN FinTech MoMo Cup.
Supporter invades pitch
There was drama as a football fan invaded the pitch ahead of the 2022 MoMo Cup finals between Nsingizini Hotspurs and Moneni Pirates. The stadium security was quick to act, as the supporter was manhandled and taken out of the pitch. It was not gathered as to which team the supporter was from as he was clad in his own clothes.
Men parade trophy
Football supporters who were watching the MoMo Cup were left surprised seeing two men parading the trophy ahead of the finals, as they were used to seeing ‘beautiful’ladies parading trophies before finals.
Some were heard shouting that the trophy be given to the two ladies that eventually posed with it as the teams made their way into the playing field.