MBABANE – Local referee Cedric Ntimane is strongly tipped to receive FIFA accreditation for 2026.
This follows the forced retirement of injured International Federation of Association Football (FIFA)-accredited veteran Thokozani Dlamini. Sources suggest Ntimane is one of four names reportedly submitted to the world football governing body FIFA for accreditation next year.
Ntimane, who has officiated in high-profile local elite league games – including the recent 1-1 draw between Mbabane Swallows and Malanti Chiefs – was among the 57 referees who successfully passed the rigorous FIFA/Confederation of African Football (CAF) physical fitness tests last month.
These tests, which include the Repeated Sprint Ability and the Interval Test, were held at Mavuso Sports Centre and were also undertaken by accredited referees Vusani Dlamini, Celumusa Phiri, Thulani Sibandze, Thembinkosi ‘Dovos’ Dlamini and Nothando Mkhumane. Failing the test can result in a month-long suspension.
The Eswatini Referees Committee (RC), now chaired by Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Board Member Sicelo Nene, faces the task of recommending new officials. The need for new names is further highlighted by the retirement of decorated female official Letticia Viana, the country’s only Video Assistant Referee (VAR) officiator. Reports indicate a female referee is set to replace her.
While member associations are typically expected to submit their refereeing lists around October each year, EFA Marketing and Communications Officer Muzi ‘Rhoo’ Radebe claimed that Eswatini is yet to submit its list, despite the submission deadline having passed over a month ago. Eswatini Referees Association (ERA) Secretary Mbongeni Shongwe declined to comment, stating the matter falls under the Referees Committee’s jurisdiction.
Eswatini has not added new names to the international list since Phiri’s inclusion in 2024. The confirmed FIFA list for 2026 is yet to be announced globally.
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