MBABANE, ESWATINI – Capital city giants Mbabane Highlanders have officially become a ‘home away from home’ for South African football personalities.
Under the ownership of South African business mogul Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize, the ‘Bull’ have undergone a major transformation, significantly strengthening its ties with the neighbouring league.
The club’s South African flavour is now undeniable, boasting a squad that features more than five players from across the border.
Headlining the list of South African talent plying their trade in Eswatini is the skilful winger Sphiwe ‘Atomic Flea’ Cele, formerly of the now-defunct Betway Premiership outfit, Royal AM. He is joined by several compatriots, including Smiso Gumede and Nkosivumile Zulu.
Adding further professional weight to the club’s hierarchy is Manager Brilliant Khuzwayo. The former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper brings a wealth of top-flight experience to the Mbabane-based side as they look to assert their dominance in the local league.
The squad, captained by Siphamandla ’24 Reasons’ Maseko, also benefits from the administrative expertise of General Manager (GM) Richard Makobe. Also hailing from South Africa, Makobe previously served as the GM of MaMkhize’s former top-flight club, Royal AM.
The current era marks a continuation of the club’s cross-border history; MaMkhize is not the first South African to lead the local giants, with the club having previously been under the stewardship of businessman and politician Chief Ally Kgomongwe.
The South African Contingent at Mbabane Highlanders:
Executive Leadership
President: Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize
Management & Technical Bench
General Manager: Richard Makobe
Manager: Brilliant Khuzwayo
The Playing Squad
- Sphiwe ‘Atomic Flea’ Cele (Winger)
- Smiso Gumede (Midfielder)
- Nkosivumile Zulu (Forward)
- Zwelihle Phewa (Forward)
- Sikhumbuzo Mazibuko (Midfielder)
- Andile Mpisane (Midfielder)
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