MBABANE—Eswatini defenders Kwakhe ‘Stopper’ Thwala and Newman ‘Strong’ Philiso stole the headlines with crucial goals in today’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League drama.
Thwala struck the third as Scottland hammered Herentals 4-0 to hit 68 points, slashing leaders Hardrock’s advantage to just two points. Meanwhile, Philiso’s Agama fell 3-1 to Chicken Inn, leaving them trapped in the relegation zone with 31 points from 33 matches.
The title race blew wide open after Hardrock stumbled to a tense 0-0 draw against Simba Bhora, leaving the championship hanging by a thread with one game remaining. Hardrock features a formidable Eswatini quartet: Sambulo ‘Masoso’ Simelane, Thubelihle Mavuso, Yeki ‘Madumane’ Khumalo, and Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini. Notably, Simelane made his return to action as a substitute in his first match back following a length injury hiatus.
These local exports join Sihlangu Semnikati for next Thursday’s high-profile international friendly against Malta. The squad, unveiled by the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) on November 6, 2026, also features Türkiye-based debutant striker Sithandiwe Mbuli from Narlıdere Belediye Spor. EFA Marketing and Communications Manager Muzi ‘Rhoo’ Radebe confirmed the team departs for Malta on Monday. Rounding out the foreign-based contingent is Betway Premiership outfit Chippa United forward Justice ‘Figa’ Figareido, who recently earned Man of the Match honours in their 2-0 victory over Stellenbosch.
