MBABANE – South African football superfan Bullie ‘Queen of Vosho’ James has praised local football standards after attending Sunday’s 8Bet Trade Fair Cup grand opening.
The energetic Mamelodi Sundowns supporter was among the capacity crowd that filled Mavuso Sports Centre to witness the kickoff of the country’s season’s opener knockout tournament.
Supporters were treated to an action-packed triple-header, where the match between Mbabane Highlanders and Ubombo Sugar acted as a ‘curtain-raiser’ for the football bonanza. Inkunzi’emnyama won 4-2 on penalties after nothing could separate the two sides in regulation time.
The second match saw defending champions Nsingizini Hotspurs narrowly edge league returnees Madlenya 1-0. Concluding the day’s activities was the clash between 2024 runners-up Moneni Pirates and Ezulwini United, which ended 1-0 in favour of the ‘Sea Robbers’ of Moneni.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, which was also attended by former Bafana Bafana star goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune and midfield legend Oupa ‘Ace’ Manyisa, the popular fan praised the vibrant atmosphere and quality displayed on the pitch. Manyisa even took time to pose for photos with Moneni Pirates players after their victory.
“I am truly impressed by the football standard here and the incredible atmosphere created by the fans,” Bullie remarked.
She noted that the passion shown by local supporters, coupled with the talent on display, made for an unforgettable spectacle while emphasising that Eswatini football is making notable strides both on and off the field.
Meanwhile, Khune and Manyisa featured as the All Stars Legends defeated Kingdom Celebrity Club (KCC) 2-1 in a exhibition curtain-raiser sponsored by 8Bet to the tune of E5 000 in a winner-takes-all clash.
The 2010 World Cup Bafana Bafana star, in a post-match interview, expressed his joy at returning to Eswatini courtesy of the tournament sponsors.
The veteran goalkeeper added that the country remains blessed with abundant footballing talent, voicing confidence that more local stars will soon secure contracts in the Betway Premiership.
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