‘BUFFS’ LADIES LEAVE FOR CAF QUALIFIERS

MBABANE – Young Buffaloes executives gathered at the Defence Headquarters, Nokwane yesterday to bid farewell to the ladies team’s players, coaching staff and support personnel.

The ‘Amathole’zinyathi’ ladies team departed to embark on their journey to the TotalEnergies Confederation of African Football (CAF) Women’s Champions League zonal qualifier in Malawi. Led by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sandile Gwebu, who is responsible for both the men’s and women’s teams, the delegation was filled with excitement and determination, as they are set to compete in the prestigious tournament, which will run from August 15-25, 2024.

Journey

As the women’s team prepared to embark on their journey, Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) Commander General Hulumende Moses Mashikilisane Fakudze was on hand to offer an inspiring farewell and words of encouragement. Fakudze, addressing the players and staff, emphasised the immense pride the entire country had in their accomplishments and urged them to raise the flag of Eswatini high during the tournament.

“I am immensely proud of our women’s team as they embark on their journey to represent not only the UEDF, but the entire Kingdom of Eswatini at the CAF Women’s Champions League. As they compete against teams from across Africa, I wish to remind them that the whole nation, including their fellow competitors within Eswatini, support and respect their efforts. The team’s dedication and hard work are an inspiration to all and I have no doubt that they will bring honour and glory to our country with their performance in this prestigious tournament,” he said.

General Fakudze, stressing the importance of good sportsmanship, advised the team to always conduct themselves with dignity and respect, as their actions would reflect not only on themselves but also on the Kingdom of Eswatini. Fakudze emphasising the critical role that respect played in international competition, highlighting the fact that the team’s demeanour on and off the field would shape the perception of Eswatini in the eyes of the world.

Prayers

The commander, on behalf of the entire UEDF fraternity, wished them the very best and assured them that they would be in the collective prayers of the Eswatini Defence Force community. He implored God to protect them on their journey, during their time in Malawi, and throughout the course of the tournament, until their safe and triumphant return home.
Meanwhile, the army side were drawn alongside three debutants in Gaborone United Ladies SC from Botswana, Uniao Desportiva de Lichanga from Mozambique and Ascent Academy from Malawi. The draw was conducted last month in Johannesburg, by the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) Competitions Manager, Joshua Knipp and Banyana Banyana Captain Refiloe Jani.

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