BY NTOKOZO MAGONGO
MBABANE – Former Sihlangu head coach, Pieter de Jongh, has reunited with international player Mxolisi Mkhontfo at Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy Football Club.
De Jongh, who parted ways with Eswatini’s national football team in 2018, was recently unveiled as the new head coach of Jwaneng Galaxy. His appointment marks the renewal of a professional relationship with Mkhontfo, who played under his guidance during De Jongh’s tenure with Sihlangu.
The club announced De Jongh’s arrival on Monday evening, as he replaces South African-born Morena Ramoreboli. Ramoreboli is expected to take over as head coach of Botswana’s national team, the Zebras.
In an official statement, Jwaneng Galaxy said, “We are pleased to announce the appointment of Head Coach Mr. Hendrikus Pieter de Jongh from Holland. Mr. De Jongh holds the prestigious UEFA A License and has extensive experience coaching African teams. We are confident he will propel Jwaneng Galaxy to greater success, both locally and internationally.”
De Jongh will be supported by assistant coach Seemo Mpatane, who has signed a two-year contract with the club.
Mxolisi Mkhontfo, currently in his second season with Jwaneng Galaxy, joined the team from Green Mamba during the 2022/23 season. Mkhontfo played a pivotal role in helping the team clinch the Botswana Premier League title. He is one of five Eswatini international players competing abroad.
The newly-appointed coach officially assumed his responsibilities today, taking over a team that is currently third in the league standings with 26 points after 14 matches.
Jwaneng Galaxy’s management and supporters are optimistic about De Jongh’s leadership, hoping he will guide the team to even greater heights in both domestic and international competitions.
