By Vuyiswa Mabila
MANZINI – As of today, Royal Leopard FC are officially E1.4 million richer.
The triumphant police side are receiving their well-deserved prize money following their stunning victory in the 2024/25 Ingwenyama Cup.
This comes after a colourful Prize Presentation Ceremony held yesterday at Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre.
True to His Majesty King Mswati III’s assurance during yesterday’s dinner, the champions’ reward is being disbursed without delay, highlighting the integrity and efficiency surrounding the prestigious tournament.
The Ingwenyama Cup, known for honouring excellence both on and off the field, crowned Royal Leopard FC as the undisputed kings of the pitch. Their remarkable display of discipline, strategy, and unity saw them claim the top prize after a thrilling tournament journey.
Moneni Pirates, the spirited runners-up, also had reason to celebrate, taking home E650 000 and the admiration of fans across Eswatini for their determined and passionate performances.
Individual brilliance shone throughout the competition. Thokozani Dlamini of Royal Leopard was named Player of the Tournament, receiving E15 000. Sandile Gamedze of Young Buffaloes won the Top Goalscorer award, and Mlamuli Makhanya of Royal Leopard earned the Best Goalkeeper accolade. Their mentor, Coach Edwin Matsebula, was rightfully recognised as Coach of the Tournament. All individual winners in the men’s category were awarded E10 000 each.
Women’s football also made a powerful statement. Simangele Sikhondze of Young Buffaloes Ladies was named Player of the Tournament, earning E2 000. Kudakwashe Bhasobho of Nsingizini Hotspurs Ladies secured Top Goalscorer, while her teammate Nokwanda Mamba won Best Goalkeeper. These awards, ranging from E600 to E2 000, symbolised the growing momentum and recognition of women’s sport in the Kingdom.
The media and match officials were not left behind. Eswatini Observer, EswatiniSoccer Mag, and Eswatini TV were each awarded E10 000 for their exceptional coverage, keeping the public informed and entertained. The officiating team, Thulane Sibandze, Celmusa Siphepho, Zamani Simelane, and Wandile Mamba—were applauded for their professionalism and received E10 000.
In communications, Moneni Pirates’ Meluleki ‘Sluga’ Simelane was celebrated as Best Public Relations Officer and received E6,000 for his stellar media coordination throughout the competition.
The 2024/25 Ingwenyama Cup Prize Presentation was more than just a handover of rewards—it was a celebration of Eswatini’s football excellence and a tribute to His Majesty’s ongoing support for sport as a unifier and nation builder.
With Royal Leopard proudly receiving their E1.4 million payout today, the spirit of the Ingwenyama Cup lives on—not just in trophies and titles, but in the opportunities and recognition it brings to those who give their all for the beautiful game.
