LOBAMBA – Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Technical Director and Coach Tomeu Perello Palou insists there is no gulf in quality between the Zimbabwean and Eswatini leagues.
Palou made the assessment after watching Nsingizini Hotspurs exit the CAF Champions League following a goalless draw against Zimbabwean side Scottland FC at Somhlolo National Stadium yesterday.
Scottland progressed 1-0 on aggregate after winning the first leg in Zimbabwe, but Palou believes Nsingizini’s performance showed that Eswatini football can compete evenly with its Zimbabwean counterpart.
“There is a lot of talent in Eswatini football. There is no difference in quality between the Zimbabwean and Eswatini leagues. I can’t say there is a gap,” Palou said.
The Spanish mentor was particularly impressed by Nsingizini left-footed player Quality Dlamini, whom he has followed with close interest.
“Quality Dlamini is a player I have always been deeply impressed by. He had some good moments and stood out,” he said.
Palou, however, believes local teams can become far more dangerous by refining their tactical approach.
“Once we change the style of play, we can be more dangerous because right now we play too many long balls,” he said.
He remains entirely confident in the raw talent available within the country.
“We have the talent, strength and quality,” Palou said.
Meanwhile, EFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Frederick Mngomezulu praised the supporters who came out in numbers to back the local teams during their continental campaigns.
“We noticed there were many supporters in attendance and we thank them for coming out to support the home teams,” Mngomezulu said.
He noted that Nsingizini were unfortunate not to convert their scoring opportunities, while also acknowledging Green Mamba’s efforts despite their own CAF Confederation Cup elimination.
“The Nsingizini players tried their best. They were unlucky not to convert the chances they got. It’s not over yet; they must start afresh,” Mngomezulu said.
On Green Mamba, he explained that playing away from home remains difficult, though the exposure will help the squad mature.
“They tried their best, they are gaining experience and they are a good team. Football is a game of moments. They will fix what they didn’t do well,” he said.
Mngomezulu added that attention would now pivot towards national team commitments, while reiterating that the domestic game possesses abundant depth.
“There is a lot of talent in Eswatini football,” he concluded.
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