(At Mahlalekhukwini House)
EZULWINI – Historic moment!
Rangers’ enterprising young forward Hleliso ‘Mahleka’ Gamedze was crowned the MTN Premier League’s first Player of the Month (POTM) for the 2025/26 season. The 20-year-old not only claimed the October accolade but also became the inaugural recipient of the award for the Mthunzi Ginindza-coached outfit during their spell in the top-flight of local football.
The current league top goalscorer was presented with a cheque of E7 000 and a trophy at a ceremony held at the sponsor’s headquarters at Mahlalekhukwini House, in Ezulwini yesterday. The event was attended by the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Brand and Marketing Manager Lindokuhle Mthupha and MTN Eswatini Marketing Manager Pumla Motsa.
‘Mahleka’ expressed his delight at receiving the Player of the Month award, stating that his main goal is to help his team finish in a respectable position in the league standings. “I’m happy that I am currently topping the charts with five goals and I would like to thank my coach and teammates for this award,” Gamedze said.
He further revealed that his immediate focus remains on ensuring Rangers compete well this season, adding that a call-up to the national team, Sihlangu, would be a bonus. The PLE brand and marketing manager revealed that Gamedze saw off competition from Malanti Chiefs’ Isaac Yeboah and Mbabane Swallows’ Lizwe ‘Benny’ Dlamini to secure the award.
Meanwhile, Motsa said as sponsors of the league, MTN is delighted by the increasing number of spectators attending matches since the grand opening at Mavuso Sports Centre.
She noted that with the recent increase in the sponsorship package, players will benefit more from individual awards, including POTM and Man of the Match. “We want individuals to benefit more so that they will be motivated, which in turn will improve the standard of the sport in the country,” Motsa said.
MTN Premier League October Player of the Month Hleliso ‘Mahleka’ Gamedze flanked by MTN Eswatini Marketing Manager Pumla Motsa (L) and PLE Brand and Marketing Manager Lindokuhle Mthupha at Mahlalekhukhwini House yesterday. (Pics: Machawe Fakudze)