MBABANE – The ultimate two cities clash returns as Manzini Wanderers host Mbabane Highlanders in a vital MTN Premier League encounter.
Over the past decade, the two sides have met 19 times, with Highlanders winning nine, Wanderers claiming three and with seven matches ending in draws. Both teams are chasing crucial points.
The E1.1 million league prize is up for grabs, but this match carries vital implications in the table: Highlanders aim to stay in the top four and edge closer to the summit, while a Wanderers win will lift them out of the relegation zone, as they currently sit 15th with one point, with Highlanders perched fourth on six points.
Adding more intrigue, Wanderers did not play the full season last year, but secured survival via the courts after protesting Manzini Sundowns’ Jimoh Moses playing as a defaulter.
Highlanders, meanwhile, are celebrating off-field success after the High Court dismissed former Director Bheki ‘Rubber’ Simelane’s challenge against his removal from the club, removing a cloud of uncertainty ahead of this clash.
Form often counts for little in these clashes. Wanderers have struggled so far, losing 2–0 to Rangers, 1–0 to Moneni Pirates and drawing 1–1 with Malanti Chiefs. Highlanders, meanwhile, have won 1–0 against Amawele and 2–0 against Manzini Sea Birds, though they lost 1–0 to defending champions Nsingizini Hotspurs.
New Wanderers coach Gcina Dlamini, fresh from Ubombo Sugar, faces immediate pressure.
He will rely on returning Captain Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule, goalkeeper Mario Jamine, midfielder Sikhumbuzo Mazibuko and options Pius Awuah, Linda Msibi and Lindelwa Dludlu.
Highlanders’ Coach Ernest Mavuso, who joined in pre-season, will count on Siyabonga Mkhonto, Simphiwe Cele, Vusi Vilakati and Ayanda ‘Shoes’ Mabuza to lead the charge.
Key battle to watch: Nkambule against Mkhonto. Nkambule will marshal Wanderers’ defence while Mkhonto’s pace and creativity could destabilise the Wanderers.
This midfield duel may well decide the flow of the match. With fans packed in and stakes high, expect end-to-end action, drama and a high-octane atmosphere.
Manzini Wanderers Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule (L) and Mbabane Highlanders’ Siyabonga Mkhonto. (Courtesy pic)