MBABANE – The impressive run of the national Under-23 side in the Confederation of African Football Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers has captured the hearts of local football fans.
Young Sihlangu have enjoyed a stellar qualifying campaign, opening their journey with a 2-1 aggregate victory over Malawi in the first preliminary round. They secured their progression to the second preliminary round via a 1-0 away win, followed by a hard-fought 1-1 draw at home.
Friday Myeni’s charges further cemented their status on Wednesday by claiming a famous 2-1 victory over Algeria. The result has restored a sense of national pride following a series of dismal performances by the senior national team, Sihlangu Semnikati.
Some of the roughly 500 spectators who turned out at Somhlolo National Stadium made no secret of their delight, saying the team fought fearlessly and that their performance signals a bright future for the country’s football.
One fan praised the team’s fighting spirit, describing their comeback victory over Algeria as courageous. The supporter further noted that the technical team is laying a vital foundation for the senior side, stressing the need for a clear integration pathway for players who excel at this level.
Fans Facebook reactions:
User 1: “This team must also play matches for the senior team.”
User 2: “Build from this squad, add a few players, this is the future Sihlangu that can win matches and don’t give Dominic Kunene to coach these boys.”
User 3: “Let us not destroy this Under-23 side, but build them for future generations. It is our next best national team.”
User 4: “Let them be the senior team, revoke the existing one.”
User 4: “Power to the technical team, they know their story. The team is playing, they are sharing the ball, and the boys stick to what is expected of them. There is room for improvement, though.”
User 5: “I hope they win or get a point in Algeria, but even if they don’t, these boys are good. Very good.”
User 6: “If this were in another country and under another federation, you would be well looked after and able to make a living from football. You deserve huge bonuses.”
User 7: “Algeria was robbed; they played Spain, not Eswatini”
