MBABANE- Eswatini defender Kwakhe ‘Stopper’ Thwala and Zimbabwean side Scottland kept their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League title hopes alive with a crucial victory over CAPS United.
Scottland reduced the gap on leaders Hardrock to five points following their win at Rufaro Stadium yesterday, October 29, 2026.
Hardrock remain top of the standings with 69 points, while Scottland have 64. The leaders boast of four Eswatini players that include midfielder Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, Thubelihle Mavuso, Sizwe ‘Madumane’ Khumalo and Sambulo ‘Masoso’ Simelane.
The gap could be reduced further to just two points if the defending champions win their outstanding fixture against Chicken Inn. Hardrock, however, remain in control of their title destiny heading into the final two rounds of the campaign.
Scottland’s ability to deliver under pressure, as demonstrated yesterday, could yet shape the outcome of the championship race.
The encounter was more than an ordinary Premiership fixture, with its build-up reportedly characterised by controversy and tension between the two clubs.
According to Zimbabwean publication The Herald, counter-accusations ahead of the match heightened the animosity, with tempers reportedly flaring after the final whistle.
The sight of Albert Manenji and his captain Walter Musona provoking CAPS United supporters further illustrated the tension surrounding the encounter.
However, the match itself, officiated by Kenyan referees, produced a competitive contest, with both sides showing their determination to secure maximum points from the opening whistle.
A superb strike from Emmanuel Jalai just seven minutes into the match proved decisive, handing Scottland a vital victory.
The result means the championship race remains wide open and could go down to the final day of the season.
Scottland were under particular pressure to deliver, having needed to remain within touching distance of Hardrock. The match also marked interim coach Peter Ndlovu’s first Premiership assignment following the dismissal of Norman Mapeza last week.
