Kwakhe wins 1st gold in Zim with Scottland

MBABANE – Eswatini international Kwakhe Thwala’s tenure in Zimbabwe has gotten off to a flying start.

Thwala’s new team secured silverware in his very first official game. The versatile Sihlangu defender, who recently joined Scottland FC from Eswatini Premier League defending champions Nsingizini Hotspurs, proved his worth immediately by breaking into the starting team for the season’s curtain-raiser.

On Sunday, Thwala made his competitive debut in the Castle Lager Challenge Cup at Rufaro Stadium, where Scottland FC delivered a 5-0 demolition of local giants Dynamos. The Eswatini star lined up alongside an illustrious squad that featured regional legends such as Knowledge Musona and Walter Musona, with South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) icon Khama Billiat making a scoring impact off the bench. The goal fest was led by Emmanuel Ziocha, Tymon Machope and both Musona brothers, before Billiat capped off the victory with the fifth goal.

Following the final whistle, a jubilant Thwala was seen on his Instagram carrying the gold trophy, celebrating a perfect start to his Zimbabwean journey. Scottland FC, often dubbed the ‘Mamelodi Sundowns of Zimbabwe’ due to their massive financial backing and aggressive recruitment, entered the match as the reigning league champions. The tournament victory not only brings early-season momentum but also highlights the club’s dominance as they prepare for the 2026 league season and the upcoming Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League. The win also triggered a significant community benefit, with Scottland FC now set to nominate a community to receive a new borehole as part of E80 000 tournament initiative.

For Thwala, the season ahead looks promising at one of Zimbabwe’s richest clubs, which is valued at over E220 million and led by the esteemed Coach, Norman Mapeza.