MBABANE- Eswatini boxer Sibonelo Vilakati is set to go blow-for-blow with a continental counterpart in his debut Commonwealth Games.
Vilakati was drawn on Wednesday, July 22, against Namibia’s Philib Haoseb in the preliminary round of 55kg, which has 24 entries. According to the schedule, the duo will exchange leather today (July 24, 2026) in sessions that begin at 7pm Eswatini time at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, Glasgow in Scotland. Both boxers will be aiming to make their respective countries proud after the three rounds of three minutes.
Vilakati will be debuting on such a big stage, as his international record shows little exposure. However, aged 19, he will definitely want to ensure that he leaves a lasting impression against the 20-year-old opponent. According to Tapology, the boxers are of the same height too, as Haoseb is 161 cm while Vilakati is 162 cm.
Earlier on, Haoseb said he felt great representing his country. According to Sports Wrap, he said he felt great attending the games. ‘I can’t wait, actually. I feel nervous but in a good way, so I’m just waiting for the games,’ he said.
He added that what he learnt was that recovery time was important after training, such as getting good sleep.
Worth noting is that Vilakati will be the first Eswatini athlete to compete among the 10 from four sporting codes that the kingdom has managed to send. Meanwhile, the second Eswatini boxer, Mukelo Dlamini, received a bye and awaits the winner from a bout featuring boxers from Uganda and Zambia.
Yesterday, Team Eswatini attended the grand opening of the Commonwealth Games. Tomorrow, we will see swimmers get into the pool, while a team of athletes is expected to depart the country for the games.
