(At Mavuso Sports Centre)
R. Leopard………………….(0)1
Anas 90 + 5
G. Mamba…………………..(1)2
‘D4D’ 2nd , ‘Gusheshe’ 87th
MANZINI — Green Mamba booked their place in the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over rivals Royal Leopard yesterday.
In a pulsating quarter-final clash that saw both teams create a flurry of chances, it was the Correctional Services outfit, who ultimately held their nerve to progress.
The game, played at a relentless pace, began with a moving moment of silence in memory of the late Mbabane Highlanders and Mbabane Dribbling Wizards legend Johannes ‘Ace’ Siboza.
Green Mamba wasted no time in making their intentions clear, breaking the deadlock just moments after the whistle. It was veteran midfielder Njabulo ‘D4D’ Ndlovu who delivered the opening blow, expertly meeting a corner from the right flank to leave goalkeeper Samkelo Dlamini with no chance.
The former Sihlangu international was a constant threat, and could have grabbed a brace just three minutes later, but his powerful shot from inside the box was blocked for a corner.
The hosts continued to dominate the early exchanges, with striker Siyabonga ‘Gusheshe’ Zwane squandering a golden opportunity in the 20th minute, ballooning the ball over the bar with only the goalkeeper to beat.
Royal Leopard, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm, with their first meaningful chance coming after 30 minutes when Ntsika Mabuza’s cross found Felix ‘Fela’ Badenhorst, whose tame effort was easily gathered by goalkeeper Xolani ‘Xoxo’ Gama. Green Mamba held onto their slender 1-0 lead as the teams went into the break.
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