Football

(At EFA Technical Centre)

LOBAMBA – Technical challenges have reportedly forced Amazulu Reserve side forward Alakhe Mdluli out of Sihlangu’s upcoming assignment.

This was revealed during their farewell function held at the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Technical Centre at Lobamba. The side will play in back-to-back International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Qualifiers. Sihlangu left yesterday at around 4pm using their coach bus which was expected to drop them off at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Their flight to Ethiopia was purportedly booked for 11pm, which is about five hours. This is where they will then connect to Cameroon.

The estimated cost for airfare and insurance of both trips is said to be E1.6 million. Notably, there are no direct flights from Cameroon to Libya. The cost per person is estimated to be E14 000, and a return flight could cost around E16 000. They will use E730 400 on accommodation in Cameroon and Libya. Furthermore, visas for the 31-member led by Head of Delegation (HOD) Vusie Hall to Cameroon, are said to be ranging in the region of E164 300, as confirmed by EFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Frederick Mngomezulu.

“We are still sorting out visas to Libya with its government. It is still early to tell the exact figure spent as yet because we are busy with logistics. Alakhe was left out due to technical issues that are personal,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, has tasked Sihlangu with securing victories in their upcoming matches against Cameroon and Libya, issuing this mandate through his Under Secretary Mzwandile Mthethwa.

“The instruction was given by His Majesty King Mswati III. He mandated the national team to reach Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals. We expect you to maintain respect and to hear good news only. The nation should rally behind Sihlangu as they represent this country. Return with both wins, a draw is also acceptable. Make us fill Somhlolo National Stadium,” Mthethwa expressed.

Full article available in our publication.

Sihlangu are primed for the challenge against Cameroon. (Pic: Ntombikayise Gwebu)