MBABANE – As Eswatini’s national team, Sihlangu, begin 2027 AFCON qualifying, the focus has shifted from local loyalty towards a new, international era.
For the first time in the 21st century, a record number of foreign-based stars have been summoned to represent the kingdom, signalling a major milestone in their quest for a maiden tournament appearance.
Sihlangu currently find themselves in a challenging position, ranked 159th in the world. This standing necessitates a difficult path through the preliminary rounds, beginning with back-to-back qualifiers against a returning Eritrea. The first leg is set to take place on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in Morocco, which is a neutral venue chosen because Eritrea lacks an internationally-approved stadium. The return fixture will see the action head to the Somhlolo National Stadium on March 31.
While much of the local discourse has been dominated by the controversial exclusion of players from league leaders Nsingizini Hotspurs, who were dropped after snubbing weekly training camps at Lobamba, the inclusion of seven exports is the real headline. Historically, Eswatini has averaged just one foreign-based player in its ranks. This sudden surge to seven represents a seismic shift in the squad’s composition and professional pedigree.
The contingent is headlined by the explosive Justice Figuareido, currently plying his trade in South Africa’s Betway Premiership with Chippa United. He is joined by fellow South African-based talent Thulani Jingana, a reliable left-back from Orbit College and Alakhe Mdluli, who is developing within the Amazulu ranks.
Crucially, the squad also features a robust group from Zimbabwe, a trend largely fuelled by the recent exodus of former Nsingizini Hotspurs players to the Zimbabwean top flight. This group includes Kwakhe Thwala of Scottland FC, Newman Philiso of Agama FC and the creatively-gifted Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini of Hardrock FC. Anchoring this international brigade is the seasoned Captain Lindo Mkhonta, who brings invaluable leadership from Zambian giants ZESCO United.
As Eswatini looks to finally break its AFCON hoodoo, the nation is banking on this unprecedented level of external experience. These seven stars represent more than just a squad list; they represent the evolving ambition of Eswatini football on the continental stage.
The selected foreign-based stars:
Player Team
Lindo Mkhonta ZESCO United (Zambia)
Kwakhe Thwala Scottland FC (Zimbabwe)
Neliswa Dlamini Hardrock FC (Zimbabwe)
Justice Figuareido Chippa United (RSA)
Alakhe Mdluli Amazulu (RSA)
Thulani Jingana Orbit College (RSA)
Newman Philiso Agama FC (Zimbabwe)
Leave a comment