Times Of Swaziland: ‘BUFFS’, EZULWINI BATTLE FOR REDEMPTION

‘BUFFS’, EZULWINI BATTLE FOR REDEMPTION
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Ashmond Nzima on 05/02/2025 09:27:00


TODAY
Young Buffaloes vs Ezulwini United at KaLanga Technical Centre (3pm)
MBABANE – In a highly-anticipated MTN Premier League clash this afternoon,
stuttering Young Buffaloes look to bounce back at the expense of Ezulwini
United. Both teams come into this match at the Kalanga Technical Centre in
Siteki, looking to shake off their recent inconsistencies, with Buffaloes
languishing nine points off the top spot and Ezulwini desperate to escape the
clutches of the drop zone. Young Buffaloes have found themselves under immense
pressure following a disappointing 0-1 defeat to Nsingizini Hotspurs in their
last league outing.
With their title aspirations hanging by a thread, they must secure all three
points to keep the leading pack within reach. Buffaloes’ squad, under the
guidance of former Sihlangu Coach Dominic Kunene, boasts a wealth of talent,
including high-profile signings who include former Mbabane Swallows stars
Siphosethu Mabilisa and Leon Manyisa as well as Innocent ‘Makhehleni’
Dlamini. The latter joined from Green Mamba. However, they remain mindful of
their recent form, which has left fans yearning for a significant response. On
the other hand, Ezulwini United have struggled to find their footing this
season, sitting outside the top eight with 15 points.
Morale-boosting
They too crave a morale-boosting victory to bolster their survival hopes,
especially with only a single point separating them from eighth-placed Rangers.
The addition of returning attacking midfielder Mpucuko ‘Smoothies’ Dlamini
from Mbabane Highlanders and left-back Fakazi Shongwe from Pigg’s Peak Black
Swallows, during the recent transfer window, adds fresh optimism to their squad.
With a trio of standout players, including December’s Player of the Month
Bhekani Mthembu, and the dynamic duo of Caleb Ofori and Banele Nkambule,
Ezulwini will be looking to build on their attacking prowess and make a
statement. Historically, the match-up has favoured Buffaloes, who have triumphed
in three of their previous four league encounters with Ezulwini, including a
double last season.
This past success will fuel Buffaloes’ confidence heading into the fixture, as
they aim to leapfrog Mbabane Swallows into fifth position if they secure a win,
bringing their points tally to 26. With a full-strength squad available,
Buffaloes will miss veteran midfielder Mancoba Mavimbela, who is nursing an
injury. Nonetheless, the rest of the squad is primed for battle, and the stakes
could not be higher. A victory could reignite their campaign, while Ezulwini
will be equally motivated to climb the league table. With both teams desperate
for points, fans can expect an intense battle.