MBABANE – Despite suffering a 0-2 setback, Sitsebe Head Coach Bongani Makhukhula is optimistic of a comeback.
He was reacting to the result after 10-woman Sitsebe endured a bruising introduction to their Hollywoodbets Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) Women’s Championship campaign, falling to Zimbabwe yesterday.
The match took place at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa. Under the Limpopo sun, this Group B opener served as a measuring stick for Makhukhula, who had boldly insisted that Eswatini are ‘no longer a pushover’ on the regional stage. Instead, it proved a stern reminder of the gulf they must bridge if they are to shatter their group-stage ceiling.
“Having brought a youthful squad, I am proud of how they executed themselves. I cannot pin them down. Our main challenge was conceding a soft goal. That was a game changer as we had to chase it instead of closing the match down. A setback limits chances of progressing to the next round. However, I am confident we will force one powerhouse out of this competition,” he said.
Meanwhile, on the field Eswatini began with purpose, adopting the compact structure Makhukhula has drilled into his 22-player squad — a blend of youthful ambition and seasoned heads such as Simangele Sikhondze and Vice Captain Neliswa Ngcamphala. Nsingizini goalkeeper Nompilo Dlamini marshalled her defence confidently in the early exchanges, while Ncedo ‘Lady Thiago’ Gamedze and Badelisile Ngozo sought to keep Zimbabwe at bay.
Chances were carved out at both ends in a competitive first half, but it was Zimbabwe who found the clinical touch. Herentals Queens midfielder Praynence Zvawanda broke the deadlock in the 37th minute, slipping through to beat Dlamini and hand the Mighty Warriors a lead. Malawian referee Rose Zimba’s half-time whistle confirmed Eswatini’s uphill task.
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Neliswa Ngcamphalala of Eswatini drives forward with determination as Zimbabwe’s Sheila Antonio gives chase during their Hollywoodbets COSAFA Women’s Championship Group B encounter at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane yesterday. (Pic: COSAFA)