Times Of Swaziland: PIRATES SUFFER ROYAL CURSE IN HIGH-STAKES CLASH

PIRATES SUFFER ROYAL CURSE IN HIGH-STAKES CLASH
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Mengameli Mabuza on 08/02/2025 09:06:00


MBABANE – This afternoon, Moneni Pirates embark on a crucial mission to
exorcise their demons and overcome their longstanding jinx against Royal
Leopard.
A thrilling encounter awaits football enthusiasts this afternoon as the two
sides lock horns in a highly anticipated matchup. Having played out a 1-1 draw
in their first meeting this season, both sides are now battling to gain an edge
in the quest for supremacy in the MTN Premier League. The balance of power tilts
heavily in Leopard’s favour, with an impressive record of five victories in
their last six encounters with Pirates.
As the police-led team confidently struts into the match, the ‘Sea Robbers’
of Moneni , having found their stride of late, are stanch in their quest to snap
the opponent’s winning streak and restore equilibrium to the rivalry. For the
Caleb ‘No Nonsense’ Ngwenya-led side, an arduous task lies ahead, as they
aim to recreate their impressive triumph from the 2021/2022 season, when they
defeated Leopard 3-2.
This season, however, they face an opponent in top-performing Leopard, whose
ambition is to widen the gap between themselves and the chasing pack in the
league. Entering this high-profile encounter undefeated in the current season,
the home side exudes confidence as they seek to extend their dominance over
Pirates.
A triumphant 2-1 victory against Mbabane Highlanders in their previous outing
fuels their desire for maximum points. Players such as Junior ‘Shisa Gesi’
Magagula, Felix ‘Fela’ Badenhorst and Wandile ‘Shaka’ Simelane are
expected to be at the forefront of the host’s offensive campaign.
However, the visitors are no pushovers, with a four-game winning streak that
includes a stunning upset against league leaders Green Mamba. The Pirates’
impressive form is buoyed by a constellation of stars, headlined by Mazwi
Sihlongane, fresh from securing the Man of the Match accolade during the grand
opening, and backed by the equally dynamic Senanelo Nkambule and Xolani
‘Messi’ Ngwenya.
This promises to be a clash of titans, as both teams strive to leave an
indelible mark on the league table.