IT’S TIME SIHLANGU TURNS THE CORNER

Sir,

As our senior national team, Sihlangu seMnikati takes on Niger in the 2019 AFCON qualifier Group J match at Mavuso Sports Centre this Sunday, it goes without saying that the nation is nursing hopes that the local boys will restore the country’s dignity by recording their first victory in the campaign.

Admittedly, the national team’s poor showing in international competitions of late leaves a lot to be desired, and so serious is the situation that most locals are finding it no longer inspiring to watch the squad in action. This is exactly what has prompted me to pen this letter.

As a nation, we cannot afford to watch our beloved national team being turned into a laughing stock each time they embark on international duty, hence it is of colossal importance for those tasked to lead the team to up their game.

This is the time when they have to restore our trust as they steer the ship beyond the AFCON qualifiers. As I penned this letter, I was made to believe that the Anthony Mdluli’s troops are already in camp, gearing up in readiness for this clash, whose first leg ended in a goalless draw away in Niger. Without appearing to be piling a lot of pressure on the locals, I have to state that nothing other than victory can appease this glory thirsty nation.

Painful

Hence, as the boys take to the field of play on Sunday, they must bear in mind that we can no longer endure the painful experience of watching the squad suffering another defeat in home soil. And of course, not against a not-so-convincing Niger side.

The same goes to the Mdluli-led technical staff; they must ensure every aspect of the preparations is given the much needed attention for the boys to display their best performance. They must demonstrate extraordinary leadership and prepare the boys in both  physical and psychological aspects. We have to consider that this team is dominated by relatively young and inexperienced players, some of whom are struggling to cement their place even at team level, thus such games provide them with great opportunities to gain the much needed exposure on the international stage.

And recording victory on Sunday can obviously go a long way in boosting their confidence when taking into account that for some it may be their first victory in Sihlangu colours.

As the football passionate nation prepares to buy pre-sale tickets from the different selling points, we sincerely hope that our beloved Sihlangu will turn the corner in this match. After all has been said and done, one cannot cease to encourage the nation to rally behind the boys. Kubo Sihlangu!

Comfort Jele
Hawane

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