BIG BEND – As FIFA confirms its accredited list for 2026, local match officials Cedric Ntimane and Pholile Simelane have officially made the cut, joining the ranks of the world’s elite football referees.
The duo’s inclusion follows the forced retirement of veteran international official Thokozani Dlamini due to injury. The Referees Committee (RC) – a wing of the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) – submits recommendations to FIFA annually before November. This latest selection was the final task overseen by the former RC leadership under Sipho Kunene, prior to the committee being taken over by EFA Board Member Sicelo Nene.
Impeccable sources confirmed that the official list was received via email yesterday, marking Ntimane and Simelane as the newest additions to the kingdom’s international roster. “We received the list yesterday, with Cedric Ntimane and Pholile Simelane confirmed as the two new names,” a source stated, speaking on condition of anonymity.
While the pair celebrates their promotion, established officials including Thembinkosi ‘Dovos’ Dlamini, Thulani Sibandze, and Assistant Referee Celumusa Phiri have all maintained their spots.
Ntimane, who has become a regular fixture in high-profile local elite league games – most recently officiating the 1-1 draw between Mbabane Swallows and Malanti Chiefs – was among 57 referees who successfully cleared the rigorous FIFA/CAF physical fitness tests last month.
Simelane’s appointment fills a vital gap following the retirement of the decorated Letticia Viana from domestic officiating. While Viana remains active as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Simelane successfully navigated the Repeated Sprint Ability and Interval Tests at Mavuso Sports Centre to secure her place.
Earning a FIFA badge is a prestigious milestone, granting officials the opportunity to preside over the highest levels of the game, from the CAF Champions League to the FIFA World Cup. While nations like England revealed their lists earlier this week, Eswatini’s official confirmation marks a significant moment for local sports.
EFA Marketing and Communications Officer Muzi ‘Rhoo’ Radebe was unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.
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