IT 'RAINED' MONEY AT MAVUSO AS OVER E400k COLLECTED

MBABANE - The Ingwenyama Cup semi-finals witnessed an extraordinary turnout.

Over 8 000 spectators gathered at the venue, located at the heart of the country, to witness four formidable teams compete in the penultimate stage of the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF) tournament, held at Mavuso Sports Centre two days ago. Royal Leopard triumphed with a 1-0 victory over Young Buffaloes, while Moneni Pirates decisively defeated Mbabane Swallows 4-1 after a tense penalty shootout.

Noteworthy, last year’s Ingwenyama Cup finals, which took place at Somhlolo National Stadium on April 7, 2024, where Green Mamba emerged victorious against Mbabane Swallows with a 1-0 score-line, resulting in 9 380 tickets sold, amounting to E469 000.

The tickets for the Mavuso double-header were priced at E50, and the stadium’s seating capacity of 7 500 was evidently exceeded, as many fans were observed standing in any available space, making it challenging to navigate through the crowd.

attendance

The number of standing spectators was estimated to exceed 500, contributing to the overall attendance of estimated over 8 000.

This marked a historic moment, being the first of its kind since the establishment of Mavuso Sports Centre.

Assuming all 8 000 attendees purchased tickets, the gate receipts would have easily surpassed E400 000. This figure is an estimate, as the official numbers are expected to be released today by the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE).

When contacted for comment, PLE Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pat ‘Kungumusa’ Vilakati confirmed that the seating capacity for Mavuso is 7 500. “Unfortunately, we have not yet received the complete report on ticket sales, as some of the locations where we placed our ticket machines are still compiling their reports. In some cases, the machines issued tickets even when the paper had run out, so we are verifying these details and anticipate a full report by tomorrow.”
He expressed gratitude to all fans for their remarkable attendance and for ensuring that the tournament remained free of violence. He also urged that such commendable behaviour be maintained in future tournaments.

Meanwhile, Ingwenyama Cup Public Relations Officer (PRO) Lenhle Masuku remarked that this day would be etched in the history of Manzini.

“We have hosted various events in Manzini, and this was one of the best-attended occasions. It will be remembered, and we extend our thanks to everyone who participated. Perhaps this serves as a wake-up call that we require a larger stadium.”Masuku said.

gratitude

He further articulated that this event heralded the vision of the Ingwenyama Cup. “I wish to express my gratitude to His Majesty for his vision and guidance in the inception of this tournament. I also extend my thanks to the tournament chairman, Prince Hlangabeza, and the sponsor, SMVAF, for their unwavering support.”

Masuku also acknowledged the efforts of the organising committee and all officials who collaborated to ensure the tournament’s success.

“This demonstrated that football is a unifying sport, as we welcomed supporters from all corners of the kingdom.

“We had to delay the kick-off due to the influx of fans into the stadium, providing us with a glimpse of what to expect in the future.”

He concluded by stating that the finals would be even grander, considering the impressive attendance at the semi-finals.

“Hard luck to the teams who were eliminated and congratulations to those who have secured their spots in the finals. It was a joy to witness the vibrant culture, and we anticipate a spectacular final, the date of which will be announced by Their Majesties,” he concluded.

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