NJONGO’S BRACE SECURES ‘BIRDS’ 1ST VICTORY OF 2025

MANZINI – Back to winning ways! This is the triumphant tale of Mbabane Swallows, who decisively defeated Madlenya 3-0 in a riveting encounter of the elite MTN Premier League at Mavuso Sports Centre yesterday. The spotlight shone brightly on Njongo Mazibuko, who delivered a remarkable brace, while Kwenzokuhle Khumalo celebrated his inaugural goal for Swallows. Prior to this victory, Swallows had last tasted success on December 14, 2024, when they obliterated Sisonkhe 4-0. Since the commencement of 2025, they had struggled with three matches, experiencing a 0-1 defeat to Young Buffaloes, alongside draws against Illovo and Manzini Sea Birds.

Propelled

This resounding win propelled Swallows from sixth to fourth place, amassing 28 points after 15 matches. In stark contrast, Madlenya remained languishing at the bottom of the table with a mere three points. More than just a victory, this match underscored Swallows’ dominance over Madlenya, as they have remained unbeaten against them in their last six encounters dating back to 2023. From the outset, the match was a captivating affair, with neither team managing to breach the deadlock by half-time—a testament to the competitive spirit on display.
Notably, referee Celumusa Sphepho was substituted by Mciniseli Sithole after reportedly feeling unwell.  

Upon resuming play, the charges led by Sindiso Gama came tantalisingly close to scoring when Njongo Mazibuko nearly broke the stalemate, only to be thwarted by goalkeeper Mlondi Dlamini in the 47th minute. Swallows were denied a penalty by referee Sithole in the 63rd minute, following a robust challenge on Nhlanhla Ngwenya by Senzo Fakudze. The breakthrough arrived in the 73rd minute when Bongi ‘Karas’ Magagula struck the woodwork, paving the way for Kwenzokuhle Khumalo to unleash a volley that found the top corner of the net. Mazibuko doubled the lead in the 80th minute, capitalising on a rebound from Philiso Newman’s volley, which also struck the woodwork. In a dramatic finish, Njongo completed his brace after being fouled by a defender in the 89th minute, converting the ensuing penalty just as the match approached its conclusion.

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