TRICKY DRAW FOR ‘BIG GUNS’

MBABANE – The draw for the second round of the Ingwenyama Cup produced some exciting match-ups yesterday.
The remaining 16 teams in Eswatini’s premier knockout tournament were paired during a draw held at the offices of the sponsor, Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF) in Mbabane. The anticipation for this year’s competition is palpable, as the chase for the E1.45 million first prize intensifies. The draw was headlined by a clash between the holders and two-time champions Green Mamba and Royal Leopard, who have reached the final twice.

This fixture is a repeat of the semi-final from the inaugural edition in 2016. In that match on January 24, 2016, the now-retired Zweli ‘Mlilo’ Nxumalo and Muzi ‘Mzoro’ Dlamini inspired Leopard to a convincing 2-0 victory over the Correctional Services outfit. The sides that are leading the pack in the league are fresh from a goalless draw.  Both teams’ spokespersons expressed gratitude to Their Majesties for providing a platform to showcase their talent through the Ingwenyama Cup. Green Mamba Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mandla Sibiya, described the draw as fair, noting they would face familiar opposition. In contrast, his Leopard counterpart Frank Hurube highlighted that this match is a crucial test in their quest to secure the title for the first time after two unsuccessful attempts.

All eyes were also on the most successful side in the tournament, the three-time champions Mbabane Swallows, who remain the last representatives of the illustrious ‘Big Three’ clubs known for their rich history and fierce competitiveness. They will face unpredictable National First Division side CK Survivors, who eliminated Denver Sundowns, this past weekend. Among the participants, Nkwene Sundowns, champions of Shiselweni, emerged as a surprise package after eliminating Premier League side Sidwashini United in a stunning upset. They will now face Manzini Sea Birds. As the lowest-ranked team in the draw, Nkwene will be eager to prove their mettle against tougher opponents. Another notable match will see Ezulwini United, owned by Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Chairman Polycarp Dlamini, face off against Red Rhinos. The latter, owned by PLE Vice Chairman Ngudze Mamba, earned the ‘giant slayers’ tag after eliminating Nsingizini Hotspurs, last weekend. “Anything can happen. The ultimate goal is to leave a mark. We are ready to give it our best shot,” said Vusi Mkhwanazi, Nkwene’s Public Relations Officer (PRO).

The draw was conducted by the tournament management committee (MC) led by Dr Comfort Shongwe, who expressed optimism about the upcoming matches. Following the draw, a lively exchange of words ensued among the teams’ spokespersons, each confidently asserting their team’s intent to progress to the next round. Shongwe praised the spirit of sportsmanship within the teams and highlighted the King’s vision for the seamless integration of football and culture. He urged teams to actively encourage their supporters to attend matches and called for a commitment to violence-free games, emphasising the importance of maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Polycarp Dlamini, Chairman of the Premier League of Eswatini, expressed gratitude to sponsors for their unwavering support and commended the teams for their exemplary conduct.

“In football, there are no small teams,” Dlamini stated. He appealed to those teams that have been eliminated from the tournament to continue their support and to don their team colours. “Let us present ourselves well and uphold professionalism, even in our dress code,” he added, reinforcing the need for a dignified representation of the sport. With matches scheduled for this coming weekend, excitement surrounding the Ingwenyama Cup is reaching fever pitch. Fans eagerly await the clashes that promise to showcase the best talent and passion in Eswatini football, as teams vie not just for glory, but for a significant cash prize that could change their fortunes.

Pat Vilakati, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of PLE, has assured patrons that games will be organised across the country, with venues set to be announced today. Meanwhile, the sponsor highlighted the importance of safety as schools prepare to reopen next week. Emphasis was also placed on the tournament slogan: ‘Take Charge: The Goal is Your Recovery,’ which underscores the commitment to ensuring a safe environment. With the convenience of smartphones, it was stressed that individuals involved in accidents can now lodge claims with ease.

Post your comment

Your name:

Your e-mail address:

Add your comments:

Please enter the code you see in the image:

Image:

Code: