MBABANE – A South African duo at Nsingizini Hotspurs have excelled in the Ingwenyama Cup on their debut in the tournament.
Former Orlando Pirates DDC tactician Mandla Qhogi was named Outstanding Coach of the 2026 edition, while his striker in former AmaZulu marksman Senzo ‘Mbhobho’ Ndlovu, walked away with the Player of the Tournament award.
Qhogi guided the Shiselweni side to their first-ever title in the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund(SMVAF)-sponsored competition that fuses football with culture. For his achievement he received a E10 000 replica cheque.
He was quick to share the credit with club President Derrick Shiba, the technical team, the players and the fans.
“I would like to give special thanks to Mr Shiba who just gave us a chance to work at his club and we are happy that we have been able to achieve the results he wanted and have seen us get a bonus for this with these trophies. We will try even harder to achieve even more,” Qhogi said.
He added that it was a special feeling for him, as a South African, to receive an award directly from the Head of State, His Majesty King Mswati III.
“I remember before the start of the past season we asked them to make sure that we reach the King. We knew that it could be achieved only through our results, which indeed we have done,” the coach said.
Qhogi also acknowledged that Nsingizini remain a target for every team this season after their treble-winning campaign last term.
Meanwhile, Ndlovu was named player of the tournament and pocketed E15 000 after an influential role in the title-winning run. He came within a single goal of the top scorer award, which went to Manzini Sea Birds’ Philani ‘Mkasabuli’ Mkhonta.
