MBABANE – All roads lead to Somhlolo National Stadium this afternoon, as Royal Leopard square off with DR Congo’s AS Maniema Union in a high-stakes TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup second-leg encounter.
With E6.9 million and a spot in the group stages on the line, it is nothing short of a do-or-die affair.
The tie remains finely poised after last weekend’s 1–1 draw in Kinshasa, where Thembisa Shabangu’s 84th-minute equaliser handed the Edwin Matsebula-led Eswatini side a crucial away goal. That strike could yet prove decisive, giving Leopard a slender edge under the away-goal rule heading into today’s return leg at home.
Maniema, who took the lead through Obed Mbala shortly after the interval, will be under pressure to win outright or secure a score draw with at least two goals to advance.
Speaking during yesterday’s pre-match briefing at Somhlolo, Leopard assistant coach Mfanzile ‘Fash’ Dlamini exuded confidence despite the absence of Head Coach Edwin Matsebula, who serves a touchline suspension after picking up a second yellow card.
“We are ready to fight and represent the country well,” Dlamini said. “We went to DRC and got that vital away goal. Now the focus is on correcting our mistakes and finishing the job here at home. We’ll fight for this NATCOM, badge, for the coach, and for the nation.”
Dlamini confirmed that preparations have gone smoothly, with only one injury concern – goalkeeper Ncamiso ‘Mbhonyo’ Dlamini.
“We plan to attack strategically and defend as a unit. The players are comfortable under me; we communicate well and there’s no pressure – only motivation,” he added.
The assistant coach also paid tribute to National Commissioner (NATCOM) of Police Vusie ‘Manoma’ Masango for his continued support.
“NATCOM’s presence at training sessions motivates the players. Yes, the E6.9 million prize is massive, but our main focus is progression to the group stages.”
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