MANZINI – Moneni Pirates staged a dramatic comeback to beat Rangers and advance to the semi-finals during a third 8Bet Trade Fair Cup 2025 last 16 round game played on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Mavuso Sports Centre.
In a game of two halves, the 2024 runners-up struck in the 51st minute through the sensational striker Senanelo Nkambule to cancel out Rangers' lead by Sizo Shabangu, which was shot in the 16th minute. The Shiselweni-based player who finished fourth last year then missed two penalties during the shootouts after Njabulo Nyoni, Captain Thabo Mngometulu and Ndunduzo 'Bhayi' Mvakali missed their shots.
Meanwhile, veteran skipper Menzi 'Magawugawu' Simelane and Phila Dlamini were the only ones unable to convert their spotkicks.
The Meck Mwase's side will face the winner between Mbabane Swallows and Manzini Sea Birds who face off on Sunday. Worth noting is that it is Mwase's first official game after switching from capital city giants Mbabane Highlanders, and they paraded new signings for former Highlanders goalkeeper, Qiniso Nyawo, who manned the sticks as Bernard Ayiwas was sidelined by an injury.
A thrilling first half saw Rangers take an early lead, with Moneni Pirates' new goalkeeper Nyawo unable to maintain a clean sheet in his debut. After an initial shot bounced off the woodwork, the defensive midfielder capitalised on the ensuing chaos to score a powerful ground shot just in the 16th minute.
Rangers then dominated play after the goal, with wing attacker Hleliso Gamedze being a constant threat on both wings, troubling Moneni's full backs Richard Ofosu and Vukile Khumalo. Despite their pressure, the Shiselweni-based side could not find a second goal.
However, Sea Robbers found a glimmer of hope when Mfundo Magagula came close to equalising, but his shot from the edge of the box sailed just over the bar following a curving cross from former Mbabane Swallows player Biko Sibandze just in the 29th minute.
The seesaw then balanced, but was tense with a back-and-forth battle. Mwase’s side pushed with Senanelo Nkambule, who gained fame in last year's tournament for his brace against Royal Leopard, causing problems for Rangers' Mthunzi Ginindza.
Just before halftime, Pirates appeared to have found their equaliser. Veteran Xolani 'Messi' Ngwenya finished off from a set piece, but the goal was quickly disallowed for offside.
The Buccaneers emerged from halftime with renewed purpose. The introductions of Phila Dlamini and Mthokozisi 'General' Hlatshwako revitalised their midfield, allowing them to seize control of the game. Sibandze and Innocent Pakule were rested.
The changes paid off just six minutes into the half when Nkambule levelled the score. After a quick pass from 'General' on the edge of the box, Nkambule unleashed a powerful strike that found the back of the net, igniting the crowd.
From that point on, the Buccaneers dominated possession and put Rangers under siege with skilful play. However, despite their clear control and talent, they were unable to convert their chances and the match went to penalties to decide its fate.
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