MBABANE — Team Eswatini has endured a tough start at the FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities as they settled across the board TODAY, Saturday, September 12, 2026.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) tournament played round two, with Eswatini in action after sitting out the first round which was played on Friday, September 11, 2026.
However, it was not a dream start for the country during their debut at the tournament’s third edition, staged in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, which features 41 nations.
Eswatini fell 4-0 to Turkmenistan, who are ranked 16th in the overall tournament rankings, while Eswatini ranks at the bottom, 41.
The local players who occupied the four boards yesterday midday were Vikelo Nkomodze, Mlandvo Khumalo, Mncedisi Magagula, and Kiara Halar, with Sinenkhosi Khoza serving as the reserve. Each played lost their opponent to eventually lose with an overall score of 4-0.
However, they will have a chance today to pick themselves up as they face Vietnam tomorrow, Sunday 13 September 2026. The tournament concludes next week Wednesday, just a day after the elite players’ 46th Chess Olympiad begins.
Team Eswatini, competing in both the Open and Women’s sections, is expected to depart tomorrow for Samarkand.
Team Eswatini;
Captain: Bagcinile Mlambo
Players;
1. Vikelo Nkomodze
2. Mlandvo Khumalo
3. Mncedisi Magagula
4. Kiara Halar
5. Sinenkhosi Khoza
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