MBABANE – Nsingizini Hotspurs are not mincing words ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes Ingwenyama Cup semi-final clash against Young Buffaloes.
The two sides are set to face each other in the second match of a double-header at 4pm, following the opening encounter between Manzini Sea Birds and Green Mamba at 1:30pm. Mavuso Sports Centre will be home to the blockbuster clashes on Sunday.
Hotspurs Head Coach Mandla Qhogi laid his cards on the table yesterday during pre-match briefings held at Sigwaca House in Mbabane. The session was attended by coaches, captains and some super fans from all four remaining clubs.
Qhogi, speaking before Buffaloes gaffer Dominic Kunene, made it clear that he knows exactly what is at stake.
He noted that all remaining teams are currently in a rich vein of form, particularly the armed forces sides who have remained consistent throughout this Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF)-sponsored showpiece over the years.
The South African-born coach acknowledged that both ‘Amathole Ezinyathi’ and ‘Inyoka Eluhlazana’ have previously tasted glory in this competition, which carries a ticket to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) inter-club competitions.
“There is no exception with this one, especially as it is the biggest cup in the country and is supported by the king. I was told this trophy is the only one missing from our cabinet, so we have taken it upon ourselves to bring it home and make history,” said the former Orlando Pirates development coach.
Qhogi’s game plan is to be on the front foot from the first whistle, maintaining possession and searching for an early goal to settle the nerves. He also mentioned the importance of keeping a clean sheet in this game to maintain their recent consistency.
“It is going to be an interesting game in the sense that we’re coming for Buffaloes. They beat us in the league, and now it’s ‘payback time’. We’re not going to beat around the bush; we’re going out to win this match,” Qhogi said.
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