By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – The MTN Premier League showdown between Green Mamba and Royal Leopard isn’t just another forces derby; it’s a high-stakes clash for the E100,000 first-round prize.
The two giants will meet this Saturday at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 3 p.m., as part of the Week 13 fixtures of the MTN Premier League. Both teams are locked at 28 points after 12 matches, with Leopard topping the table on goal difference, leaving Green Mamba in second place.
This pivotal match could decide who claims the E100,000 prize awarded to the league leader at the end of the first round.
The Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) released the weekend’s fixtures on Tuesday, highlighting a thrilling doubleheader at Mavuso Sports Centre on Sunday. Moneni Pirates’ new coach, Caleb Ngwenya, will make his debut against Rangers at 2 p.m., followed by a clash between the struggling Mbabane Highlanders and Ezulwini United at 4:30 p.m.
In another key match on Sunday, third-placed Nsingizini Hotspurs will face Sidvwashini United at King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium at 3 p.m. While mathematically still in contention for the first-round prize, Nsingizini will need both Green Mamba and Royal Leopard to draw and must score at least seven goals to secure the top spot.
Meanwhile, Mbabane Swallows, fresh off a 0-1 loss to Young Buffaloes, will face Illovo on Sunday at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre, with kickoff set for 3 p.m.
Full Weekend Fixtures:
Saturday, January 11, 2025
King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium:
- Green Mamba vs. Royal Leopard (3 p.m.)
Mayaluka Stadium:
- Madlenya vs. Young Buffaloes (3 p.m.)
Mhlume Stadium:
- M. Sea Birds vs. Sisonkhe (3 p.m.)
Sunday, January 12, 2025
Mkhuzweni Technical Centre:
- Mbabane Swallows vs. Illovo (3 p.m.)
Mavuso Sports Centre:
- Moneni Pirates vs. Rangers (2 p.m.)
- Mbabane Highlanders vs. Ezulwini United (4:30 p.m.)
King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium:
- Nsingizini Hotspurs vs. Sidvwashini United (3 p.m.)
