LOBAMBA – Can there really be joint winners?
That was the underlying question at Somhlolo National Stadium yesterday afternoon during the Ingwenyama Cup pre-match media engagements. The question emerged after both finalists, Green Mamba and Nsingizini Hotspurs, declared their firm intention to win the eighth edition of the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF) competition.
Green Mamba Head Coach Bongani Mhlongo stated that preparations are ongoing, but the team has done enough to challenge Mbabane Swallows’ record of three titles.
“We have covered most areas physically, tactically, and technically. We are still working on the mentality of the players because we want them to quickly identify and capitalise on the opponents’ weaknesses,” Mhlongo told the media.
He added that the team is playing for redemption, as this trophy remains the only major silverware they can present to Club President, Commissioner General (ComGen) Phindile Lamakhosini Dlamini. Mhlongo noted the squad is largely injury-free, though Njabulo ‘D4D’ Ndlovu remains a doubt.
Nsingizini Hotspurs coach Mandla Qhogi said the mission is clear: to win and retain the trophy.
“I have personally watched Correctional Services and I am convinced they do not have the depth required to stop us. We have played them three times this season, winning twice, which gives us confidence,” he said.
While six of his players have previous final experience, goalkeeper Khanyakwezwe Shabalala and Ade Adeleke will miss the clash through injury.
Captain Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa thanked ComGen Phindile Dlamini for her support, stating the players are determined to win for her. Meanwhile, Nsingizini players expressed they fully understand the magnitude of the occasion and are eager to lift the prestigious trophy.
Nsingizini Hotspurs’ Mandla Qhogi (L) and Green Mamba’s Bongani Mhlongo both fancy themselves as Sunday’s Ingwenyama Cup winners. (Pic: Nimrod Hlophe)