MBABANE DERBY ELECTRIFIES FANS

MBABANE – It is a clash of the titans.

The Mbabane Derby, which is tentatively set for next week, is one of the most electrifying matches in the country’s football calendar, featuring a fierce rivalry between Mbabane Swallows and Mbabane Highlanders. This derby not only showcases the talent of both teams but also embodies the passion and pride of their respective fan bases. The rivalry between Swallows and Highlanders dates back several decades, making it a cornerstone of Eswatini’s football culture. The derby is often characterised by intense competition, with each match drawing large crowds and generating significant debates around the tactics employed by the clubs.

For instance, in a notable encounter earlier in May, Mbabane Swallows secured a 3-2 victory over Mbabane Highlanders, further intensifying the rivalry and showcasing their dominance in the league. Like many high-stake matches, the Mbabane Derby has not been without its controversies. There have been instances of violence and unrest during games, raising concerns about safety and sportsmanship.

However, such incidents highlight the passionate nature of the rivalry while underscoring the need for improved measures to ensure a safe environment for players and fans alike.
Looking at the current season, Mbabane Swallows holds the upper hand as they are the current log leaders after six league encounters. Swallows have only lost one fixture so far this season, which was their most recent encounter against Moneni Pirates, who defeated the capital city giants 1-0 at Mayaluka Stadium, in Big Bend. The red and white side have secured five wins, tallying 15 points. Meanwhile, ‘Inkunzi Emnyama’ have had a rocky start to the MTN Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) season 2024/25, winning only one game, losing three and drawing one. Their current results place them in 12th  position on the log standings, ahead of the derby.

It is worth mentioning that both teams have not scored more than two goals in a game, with the most goals scored being two within regulation time.
On the other hand, Swallows have maintained a strong defensive record, having only conceded one goal in the league, while Highlanders have conceded seven and managed to score two in their last five fixtures. Moreover, supporters of both clubs have started sharing their views on the upcoming derby on various Facebook platforms.

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