SITEKI – Eswatini’s dream of a first Africa Netball Cup gold ended in Nairobi as South Africa produced a devastating final quarter to win 49-45.
The Jabulani Vilane-led men produced a brave performance in the final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in Nairobi, Kenya this afternoon on September 26, falling just four goals short against the defending champions. This was a repeat of the 2024 final.
Vilane made one key change to his starting line-up with Simanga Vilakati starting at centre as the replacement for Mandisa Sihlongonyane who dropped to the bench. Brandon Dlamini retained the goal shooter position, with Ndukwe Masangane at goal attack and Sphiwo Dlamini at wing attack. Sakhile Maseko started at wing defence, Sthabiso Mzileni at goal defence and captain Fortune Neves at goalkeeper.
South Africa, led by Head Coach Shiko Mokaila and captain Sicelo Gamede, started with Lutendo Maiwashe at goal shooter, Eugene Sinxezi at goal attack, Romeo Nqcaku at wing attack, Kwandile Sithole at centre, Zimi Mbungwana at wing defence, Njabulo Nekhavhambe at goal defence and Vukile Zulu at goalkeeper.
South Africa took the opening quarter 14-10 and stretched the lead to 26-21 at half-time as Eswatini struggled for fluency in attack.
The third quarter belonged to Eswatini. Masangane and Dlamini turned pressure into goals while Mzileni and Neves tightened at the back. Eswatini won the quarter 15-7 to take a 36-33 lead into the final period.
The decisive moment came in the fourth quarter. South Africa recomposed themselves and outscored Eswatini 16-9 to close out the 49-45 victory and retain their crown.
Results
1st Quarter: Eswatini 10 – 14 SA
2nd Quarter: Eswatini 21 – 26 SA
3rd Quarter: Eswatini 36 – 33 SA
4th Quarter: Eswatini 45 – 49 SA
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