(At Royal Villas Hotel)
EZULWINI – Before glamour, applause and flashing cameras, Eswatini football’s finest gathered in style as outstanding performers were rewarded for stellar seasons.
Under shimmering chandeliers, the luxurious Royal Villas Hotel radiated elegance as players, coaches, administrators and invited guests adhered to the evening’s sophisticated dress code. Stylish black suits, neatly knotted ties and glamorous evening dresses dominated the red-carpet atmosphere, befitting a night dedicated to honouring the kingdom’s finest football talents. They had convened to celebrate the 2025/26 MTN Premier League season stars yesterday night.
The ceremony attracted some of the most influential figures in Eswatini sport, including Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima, as well as officials from the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) and Premier League of Eswatini (PLE), among others.
While fashion and glamour stole early attention, the spotlight quickly shifted to the season’s heroes.
The loudest cheers of the evening were reserved for Manzini Sea Birds winger Philani ‘Mkasabuli’ Mkhonto, whose outstanding campaign earned him the coveted Player of the Season accolade and a handsome E17 000 cheque. The pacey winger played a pivotal role in guiding Sea Birds to a historic second-place finish in the 16-team league, contributing 11 goals during an impressive season.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
PLE Chairman Polycarp Dlamini congratulates Player of the Year Philani ‘Mkasabuli’ Mkhonto while joined by MTN Fintech CEO Sam Shongwe (R) during the MTN Premier League Awards at Royal Villas last night. (Pic: Machawe Fakudze)