MAFUTSENI – Final preparations are now in full swing.
Netball Eswatini has announced the squad set to compete in the prestigious Africa Netball Cup, which runs from December 8 to 14 in Lilongwe, Malawi. Eswatini has been placed in a challenging group alongside Malawi, Kenya and Namibia for the continental showpiece.
The tournament will be hosted at the Griffin Sayenda Sports Complex in the Malawian capital. Team Eswatini will launch their campaign with a tough opening fixture against the host nation, Malawi, on December 8. They are one of 11 countries participating in this year’s edition.
Head Coach Vumbukhosi Ndlangamandla has selected a strong 15-member squad, dominated by players from the defending league champions, Green Lightning. Ndlangamandla will be assisted by Wandile Sithole. Key names in the selection include Simanga ‘Mgwaja’ Vilakati, Mandisa ‘MacPeace’ Sihlongonyane and Fortune Neves.
The squad is further bolstered by representatives from Royal Flames, one player from Buffaloes and athletes from Vixens. The delegation will be headed by Eswatini National Netball Association (ENNA) Vice President Philile Khathwane, with Nhlanhla ‘Khula’ Ngcamphalala taking on the role of Team Manager.
Team Eswatini carry notable momentum into the tournament, having secured a silver medal in their debut appearance last year in Namibia.
The team are scheduled to depart Eswatini on December 7, a timeline confirmed by ENNA Secretary Nkabinde Shabalala in an official press release.
“We are proud to announce the final squad representing Eswatini at the Africa Netball Cup 2025,” read the statement. “Our team of dedicated and talented athletes will proudly compete on the continental stage, showcasing the spirit and skill of Eswatini netball.”
Shabalala concluded with an appeal to the nation for support as the squad aims for continental honours. “We invite all supporters and fans to rally behind our team as they strive for excellence and bring pride to Eswatini. Together, we stand united in support of our netball stars.”
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