MBABANE — Eswatini football has reached a remarkable milestone.
For perhaps the first time in the country's history, the kingdom can almost field a complete starting XI made up entirely of players based outside its borders.
The only missing piece is a goalkeeper. The latest moves involving former Nsingizini Hotspurs stars Thubelihle Mavuso and Yekisizwe ‘Madumane’ Khumalo to Zimbabwean side Hardrock have further strengthened an overseas contingent that now spans six countries across Southern and East Africa.
From Zambia and Zimbabwe to Botswana, South Africa, Mozambique and Uganda, Eswatini internationals are increasingly finding homes in foreign leagues, underlining the growing respect for local talent beyond the kingdom's borders.
At the heart of that group is Sihlangu Captain, better known as Lindo ‘Bhabhalazi’ Mkhonta, who continues to marshal the defence at ZESCO United in Zambia. The full-back could soon reunite with veteran Coach George Lwandamina, the man who brought him to the club.
Alongside Mkhonta in defence are Kwakhe Thwala, known as Kwakhe ‘Stopper’ Thwala, Thulani Jingana and Newman Philiso, widely recognised as Newman ‘Strong’ Philiso. The Zimbabwe-based duo has continued to raise the profile of Eswatini football in one of the region's toughest leagues.
The midfield department is where Eswatini's strength is most evident. Mxolisi Mkhonto and Banele ‘Stiga’ Ndzabandzaba have become established figures in Botswana, while Hardrock's Eswatini contingent features namely Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, Sambulo ‘Masoso’ Simelane, alongside Thubelihle Mavuso and Yekisizwe ‘Madumane’ Khumalo.
The options are further strengthened by Sizwe Gwebu, who is based in Uganda, giving Sihlangu a wealth of experience and variety in the middle of the park.
On the flanks, exciting youngster Alakhe Mdluli continues his development in South Africa with AmaZulu's reserve side, where he is regarded as one of the country's brightest emerging talents.
The attack is spearheaded by two of Eswatini's most recognised exports. Justice Figuareido, known across local football circles as ‘Figa’, is on the books of Chippa United in South Africa, while Bandile ‘Mliba’ Shongwe, is plying his trade in Mozambique with Ferroviario de Maputo.
That reality speaks volumes about the progress of Eswatini football. Not long ago, the nation celebrated isolated success stories abroad. Today, there are enough internationals scattered across the region to form virtually an entire starting XI without selecting a single player from the domestic league.
Neliswa 'Tiger' Dlamini. (R) Kwakhe Thwala.