BY THOBILE NDLANGAMANDLA (INTERN)
LOBAMBA – Young Buffaloes Ladies defeated Nsingizini Hotspurs 5–4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, while Manzini Wanderers beat AS Interladies 2–0 to book their places in the Women’s Ingwenyama Cup final during semi-final matches played at Lobamba Technical Centre on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
The second semi-final between Young Buffaloes and Nsingizini Hotspurs proved to be a tense and evenly balanced encounter, with both sides creating chances but failing to find the back of the net in regulation time. Nsingizini showed attacking intent, pushing forward with pace and determination, while Buffaloes remained organised at the back and dangerous on the counterattack.
With neither side able to break the deadlock, the match was decided through a penalty shootout. Buffaloes displayed composure under pressure, converting five of their spot-kicks. Goalkeeper Gcinile Dlamini emerged as the hero when she produced a crucial save to deny Nsingizini captain Nomfundo Bhembhe in the decisive kick.
Bhembhe, who had led her team with resilience and determination throughout the match, was left visibly emotional after the miss, marking a painful end to Nsingizini’s impressive run in the tournament. Despite the defeat, Hotspurs delivered a spirited performance that highlighted their growing strength in women’s football.
Earlier in the day, Manzini Wanderers secured a comfortable 2–0 victory over AS Interladies in the first semi-final. Wanderers dominated large spells of the match, controlling possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities. Their clinical finishing ensured they capitalised on their chances, while their defence remained solid to keep a clean sheet.
AS Interladies fought hard but struggled to break down Wanderers’ organised defence, ultimately falling short against a more clinical and composed side.
The results set up a highly anticipated final between Young Buffaloes Ladies and Manzini Wanderers, scheduled for next Sunday. Buffaloes head into the clash with momentum following their dramatic shootout victory, while Wanderers will be confident after their commanding performance in the semi-finals.
The stage is now set for an exciting showdown, as both teams aim to claim the Women’s Ingwenyama Cup title and cement their status among the top sides in Eswatini women’s football.
#IngwenyamaCup #WomensFootball #YoungBuffaloes #ManziniWanderers
