Times Of Swaziland: SITSEBE AT RISK OF LOSING E1.6 BOUNTY

SITSEBE AT RISK OF LOSING E1.6 BOUNTY
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Lindokuhle Madlopha on 25/02/2025 08:15:00


MBABANE – Eswatini’s Senior Women’s National Team, Sitsebe Samhlekazi are
in danger of losing a hefty E1.6 million for just qualifying for Women’s
Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). With their eyes set on a historic qualification,
Eswatini will face Namibia in the decisive second-leg match, scheduled for
tomorrow at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto.
After suffering a challenging 3-0 defeat in the first leg, Sitsebe will need an
extraordinary effort to reverse the deficit.
However, the reward for making it through to the next stage is a significant
one. As the team readied themselves for this crucial fixture, they were given a
warm send-off at the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Technical Centre in
Lobamba yesterday. A squad of 20 players, along with an eight-member delegation,
set off on their journey to take on Namibia, determined to turn the tide in
their favour.
Gesture
In a gesture of immense support, Sitsebe Samhlekazi were presented with a full
kit, generously sponsored by NTT Toyota Eswatini, valued at approximately E40
000. Lawrence Methula, the Marketing Executive at NTT Toyota Eswatini, expressed
the company’s pride in supporting the nation’s footballing efforts,
stating.“When EFA approached us for sponsorship, we responded with open arms.
We believe in supporting football in our country, and it is our hope that the
team will look presentable and represent Eswatini well on the international
stage.
We are excited to be part of their journey and will continue to help whenever
opportunities arise,” Methula said. On behalf of EFA President Peter Samora,
the EFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Frederick Mngometulu, expressed deep
gratitude to NTT Toyota Eswatini for their sponsorship. Others in their own
words: l Sitsebe Samhlekazi Captain Nonhle Simelane:
“Our coaches have done their part, and now it is up to us to deliver. We
humbly ask for your support as we head into battle. Your prayers and
encouragement will make all the difference.”
l Head Coach Bongani Makhukhula. “We have analysed our first leg and have
worked hard to address our weaknesses. We know the strengths and weaknesses of
our opponents, and we are prepared to strike when the time is right. Please be
patient with us, as we are going to give everything we have got to qualify for
the AFCON.”