Courtesy of Century Fashions
Richards Bay…………….(0)0
Nsingizini Hotspurs…….(0)0
(Nsingizini won 6-5 after sudden death penalties)
ULUNDI - Nsingizini Hotspurs, the only Eswatini team to feature in the 2025 Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup, dramatically wrote their name into the tournament’s history books yesterday.
The Eswatini champions stunned Betway Premiership side Richards Bay 6-5 on sudden death penalty shootouts to book their place in the final.The high-stakes second semi-final, staged at the iconic Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium in Ulundi, saw the Eswatini side emerge victorious after a hard-fought goalless draw in regular time.
However, their anticipated final showdown against Amazulu, who had earlier secured a 2-1 victory over holders Njampela, was aborted.
Worsening weather conditions forced the match to be cancelled, as confirmed by the tournament’s official page. As a result, both sides were declared joint winners, sharing the prestigious trophy. All sides were entitled to E350 000 as a participation fee.
The wet skies did little to deter the enthusiastic football lovers. Nsingizini’s loyal supporters were en route to Ulundi as early as 4am, forming part of the over 500 spectators seen carrying umbrellas and rallying vocally behind their team.
The fiercely-contested clash was witnessed by a number of dignitaries, including Nsingizini President Derrick Shiba and Zululand Mayor Councillor Michael Khumalo. South African Maskandi singer Mthandeni SK King kept the crowd entertained with a headline performance throughout the day.
The first half offered moments of quality amid the challenging, wet conditions. In the 16th minute, Richards Bay’s Kenyan goalkeeper made a crucial save after Nsingizini midfielder Sizwe Khumalo expertly sidestepped Lwandile Mabuya, leaving the defender slipping on the slick pitch. A minute later, Thabani Zuke’s powerful header from a set piece flew just over Sibusiso ‘Bharaba’ Dlamini’s post.The home side pressed again when Joel Madondo connected well with Sinenkosi ‘China’ Dlamini’s neat pass two minutes later, but their effort was swiftly thwarted by the Richards Bay keeper, Ian Otieno. The Natal Rich Boyz made the first tactical change five minutes past the half-hour mark, with Lindokuhle Mtshali replacing Thabisa Ndelo. Despite numerous attempts from both sides, the score remained goalless when the referee signalled for the half-time break.
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