MATSAPHA — Eswatini produced another fine performance in Nairobi, narrowly edging out Uganda 41–38 in a thrilling Africa Netball Cup clash.
The Jabulani Vilane-led side set the tempo at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Tuesday, gradually grinding out a vital victory in a competition that also doubles as the qualifiers for the 2027 Netball World Cup.
Head Coach Vilane made a handful of changes to his starting line-up, with Brandon Dlamini retaining the goalshooter bib ahead of Thembeka Dlamini, while Mpendulo Mncina stepped in at centre to replace Mandisa Sihlongonyane. Elsewhere, Thembinkosi ‘Lorch’ Matsebula moved to wing defence to accommodate Siphiwo Dlamini at wing attack, taking the place of Thabo Maphosa.
The sides were deadlocked at 9–9 after a tight opening quarter, with Brandon and goal attack Ndukwenhle Masangane leveling the scores for Eswatini. The attacking duo were ably supported by Siphiwo, while Mncina controlled the transition between defence and attack. At the back, Captain Fortune Neves anchored the defence at goal defence alongside Sakhile Maseko in the goal circle.
Eswatini took full command in the second quarter. Masangane and Dlamini turned persistent pressure into points, netting 12 goals while a disciplined defensive effort restricted Uganda to nine, establishing a 21–18 lead at half-time.
The third quarter proved a cagey affair, with both teams scoring nine goals apiece to leave Eswatini holding a 30–27 advantage going into the final quarter.
The decisive moments came down the stretch. As Uganda pressed for a route back into the match, Eswatini’s defence that was spearheaded by Neves stood firm, allowing the attacking line to clinical convert their chances and seal a 41–38 victory.
The win gives Eswatini a major boost in the men’s round-robin tournament, which features South Africa, Kenya and Uganda. Vilane’s men face hosts Kenya tomorrow in their final group fixture.
Quarter-by-Quarter Scores:
Q1: Uganda 9–9 Eswatini
Q2: Uganda 18–21 Eswatini
Q3: Uganda 27–30 Eswatini
Q4: Uganda 38–41 Eswatini
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