BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE – Green Mamba FC captain Sabelo Ndzinisa, popularly known as “Skhali Sembhubhiso,” says the team is fully prepared and motivated ahead of Sunday’s Ingwenyama Cup final clash against Nsingizini Hotspurs at the Somhlolo National Stadium.
The highly anticipated encounter, scheduled for a 1500hrs kick-off, will see two of Eswatini’s football giants battle for the prestigious Ingwenyama Cup title and the E1.45 million prize money, with continental football qualification also at stake.
Speaking ahead of the blockbuster fixture, players and technical staff expressed confidence and determination, describing the final as an opportunity for Green Mamba to revive their season after a challenging league campaign. “This is a big moment for us as players and as a club. We know what this final means to the supporters, and we are ready to fight for the badge and make Green Mamba proud,” said Ndzinisa.
He also called on supporters to rally behind the team while promoting responsible behaviour during the event.“We urge our supporters to come in numbers and support us during the final. We also encourage everyone attending the match to respect themselves, prioritise road safety, and remain responsible throughout the celebrations. This is more than just a football match it is a family day for Green Mamba supporters. As players, we promise to fight for the badge and do everything possible to bring the cup home,” he added.
Head coach of Green Mamba Bongani Mhlongo also used the occasion to congratulate Mswati III on 40 years on the throne, while acknowledging the support received from club leadership and stakeholders throughout the season. “We appreciate the support from the president and the executive because we are here because of their support. Preparations are ongoing, and we are focusing on recovery and final touch-ups before the match,” said Mhlongo.
The coach revealed that the team recently played a preparatory match in Nhlangano as part of efforts to fine-tune tactics and maintain player fitness ahead of the final. He added that the postponement of the competition worked in the team’s favour by allowing more recovery and preparation time.
Mhlongo further described the Ingwenyama Cup as a major opportunity for the club to restore confidence after an inconsistent league season. “Our league season was not good, but in this competition we went all out. This final gives us a chance to raise ourselves again, especially because there is also an opportunity to qualify for continental football,” he said.
The coach also highlighted the importance of the tournament in developing players, noting that most of the squad is fit and ready for the challenge, with only Njabulo Ndlovu currently undergoing rehabilitation.
Football supporters are expected to fill Somhlolo National Stadium for what promises to be an exciting and emotional final between two determined sides chasing silverware and regional opportunities.
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