ESSA makes over E30k in finals

MBABANE- The Eswatini School Sports Association (ESSA) raised over E30 000 from the recent Instacash Schools Soccer Tournament finals.

ESSA Treasurer Lucky Dlamini, reported that the Mavuso Sports Centre, a 5 000-seater venue, was filled to capacity, with an overwhelming number of standing supporters, including pupils. He estimated attendance exceeded 7 000, though exact figures will be confirmed in due course.

“The precise attendance will be verified by the stadium representative, but we had approximately 7 000 supporters, given that the stadium accommodates 5 000 seated fans,” Dlamini stated.

Entry fees were E5 for those in school uniform and E10 for others. With around 7 000 supporters paying E5 or E10, gate takings are estimated at approximately E35 000.

Additionally, at least 2 500 football enthusiasts contributed a minimum of E25 000.

ESSA President Zakhele Myeni, highlighted these figures as proof of the competition’s growing popularity.

“These are impressive numbers, and we anticipated this during the national semi-finals in Nhlangano, where over 3 000 attended,” Myeni noted.

The electrifying atmosphere was already evident two weeks earlier at the national semi-finals held at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium in Nhlangano.

enthusiastic

The thrilling line-up featured Mpaka High School, Nhlangano Central, Evelyn Baring and Manzini Central. The stands buzzed with enthusiastic pupils and passionate football fans, erupting in cheers amid a vibrant display of colour.

The semi-finals foreshadowed an even larger turnout for the final, which drew over 7 000 fans—surpassing the venue’s 5 000 capacity—to witness a captivating spectacle, outstripping the attendance of some MTN Premier League teams.

Myeni confirmed this yesterday, saying, “We saw remarkable attendance and are deeply grateful for the support. Our partners have been instrumental in elevating these games to their current prominence.”

Evelyn Baring claimed the E35 000 prize, while their star player, Hleliso Gamedze, received the man-of-the-match award and E1 000 from Letshego for his outstanding performance.

The final was a gripping rematch of last year’s clash at Somhlolo National Stadium, where Manzini Central had triumphed 6-1 over Baring.

This time, Baring prevailed with determination and tactical prowess, securing a dramatic 3-2 victory in a penalty shootout after an intensely-contested match.