FAIR DRAW FOR ‘BIG GUNS’

MBABANE – ‘Big guns’ have avoided each other in the quarter-finals of Eswatini’s premier knockout tournament, the Ingwenyama Cup. The draw, held under the auspices of the tournament management committee and the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) at the offices of the sponsor, Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF), yesterday, delivered intriguing match-ups while ensuring the tournament’s heavyweights avoided early collisions. The standout clash of the round will undoubtedly see three-time champions Mbabane Swallows, the most successful club in the tournament’s history, go head-to-head with surprise package Lozitha Spurs, a National First Division (NFD) side and the lowest-ranked team left in the competition.

cruising

 The sides met in the first-round of the last edition, with Swallows cruising to a 3-0 win. While Swallows are heavily favoured to progress, Lozitha Spurs will look to make the most of their underdog status and cause a seismic upset. Elsewhere, two-time runners-up Royal Leopard, who are the only unbeaten side in all competitions this season, were handed a seemingly favourable draw against Ezulwini United, a side battling to stay afloat. Royal Leopard’s Public Relations Officer, Frank Hurube, expressed relief, but was quick that it is a tricky draw. “We cannot afford to be complacent against a fellow Premier League but we do not want to be derailed in pursuit of our first title. “The draw also produced a thrilling Manzini derby, with the improved Manzini Sea Birds set to face in-form Moneni Pirates.

fireworks

Both teams are no strangers to heated encounters, and the derby promises to deliver fireworks. Meanwhile, Young Buffaloes, the 2019 champions, will take on Illovo, who are making their first-ever quarter-final appearance in the tournament. Meanwhile, by 5pm yesterday, the venue was brimming with excitement as team representatives, and officials gathered to witness the draw. The atmosphere was electric as the names were pulled out of the pot, one by one. Illovo were the first team drawn, setting up their clash with Young Buffaloes.
This was followed by Ezulwini United being paired with Royal Leopard; Lozitha Spurs facing Mbabane Swallows; and finally the Manzini derby between Moneni Pirates and Sea Birds.
Following the draw, a war of words broke out among some team representatives, each confident in their ability to progress to the semi-finals. The quarter-final clashes are set to take place on a date yet to be confirmed. Pairings were also made for the inaugural women knockout tournament sponsored to the tune of E100 000. The headliner is the match-up between the league’s best teams, Young Buffaloes Ladies and their Manzini Wanderers counterparts.

opportunity

The event was more than just football, as key stakeholders took the opportunity to drive home messages of safety and social responsibility. Dumisa Dlamini, who is Accident Prevention and Public Education Manager at SMVAF, highlighted the positive impact of football in spreading awareness about road safety. “We’ve seen a decline in claims, and that shows football is helping us drive the road safety message,” he said. PLE Chairman Polycarp Dlamini echoed this sentiment, urging fans and players to avoid reckless driving, particularly while under the influence of alcohol.
He also thanked teams that have already been eliminated for their continued support, describing their solidarity as crucial to the tournament’s success. Sam Mzileni, the SMVAF Corporate Executive, added his voice to the call for responsible behaviour, advising fans to consume Eswatini’s popular marula brew responsibly and to utilise designated pedestrian crossings.
He also expressed the sponsor’s desire to see Eswatini’s football talent, including players and coaches, making waves in Europe.

memory

The event concluded on a sombre note, with a moment of silence observed in memory of Sibonginkhosi ‘Gudas’ Dlamini. The former football star of Mbabane Swallows, Mbabane Highlanders and Manzini Wanderers passed away recently, leaving a void in Eswatini football. His funeral will take place this weekend. As the teams prepare to lock horns, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the Ingwenyama Cup’s illustrious history. With glory at stake and fans eagerly awaiting the action, all eyes will now turn to the quarter-final match dates for what promises to be a spectacular showcase of Eswatini football.

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