MBABANE – While the nation waits for Sihlangu Semnikati to make their mark on the grand stage, Eswatini football fans have shifted their gaze to regional neighbours who faced a baptism of fire in the opening matches of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The tournament remains the pinnacle of achievement for the football community in Eswatini, serving as a benchmark of excellence that the local national team continues to strive toward. The focus during this edition remains firmly on the representatives from COSAFA. In the absence of Sihlangu on the pitch, the kingdom rallies behind these regional brothers who carry the hopes of the South against the traditional powerhouses of the North and West.
Zambia’s Chipolopolo provided a major highlight for regional fans, snatching a dramatic 1–1 draw against Mali in Casablanca. After a tense first half, Mali’s Lassine Sinayoko broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, leaving the Zambians chasing shadows for much of the second period. However, showing the “never-say-die” spirit of COSAFA football, star striker Patson Daka rose highest in the 92nd minute, connecting with a brave diving header to level the score and secure a vital point in Group A.
In a highly anticipated regional derby in Marrakech, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana narrowly defeated Angola 2–1. Oswin Appollis gave the South Africans an early lead, but the Angolans fought back through a clinical finish from Show. The match remained on a knife-edge until the 79th minute when Lyle Foster unleashed a superb strike to settle the contest. While South Africa takes the three points, Angola’s performance suggests they remain a massive threat in the group.
It was a case of “so close yet so far” for Zimbabwe and Comoros. The Warriors of Zimbabwe stunned Egypt by taking a 20th-minute lead through Prince Dube. They held that lead until after the break when Omar Marmoush equalised. In a cruel twist of fate, Egyptian talisman Mohamed Salah struck in stoppage time to deny Zimbabwe a well-deserved point. Similarly, Comoros frustrated the hosts, Morocco, for over an hour before two second-half goals saw the Atlas Lions claim a 2–0 win. Despite the loss, coach Stefan Cusin’s side showed immense promise ahead of their crucial match against Zambia this coming Friday.
Botswana also faced the ultimate test against tournament favourites Senegal. The Zebras produced a defensive masterclass for 40 minutes, keeping the star-studded Senegalese side at bay. However, the quality of Nicolas Jackson, who netted a brace, and a late goal from Cherif Ndiaye eventually saw Senegal win 3–0.
As the regional battle for supremacy continues, Mozambique was also in action against defending champions Ivory Coast by the time this report was compiled, looking to pull off what would be a historic upset for the COSAFA region.
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