By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – The Ingwenyama Cup has now entered a critical phase, as teams will engage in extra time if the regular (90 minutes) end in a draw.
This stipulation is outlined in the tournament’s rules and regulations. Royal Leopard will face Young Buffaloes in the semi-finals, while Mbabane Swallows have been drawn against Moneni Pirates. Both matches will take place during the holiday on Monday at a venue yet to be confirmed.
According to Article 7.3.2.1, for the semi-finals and finals, the matches shall be played as a single knockout game, where the winner will qualify for the next round. Article 7.3.2.2 states that in the event of a draw after the regular 90 minutes, the game will proceed to extra time of thirty (30) minutes, divided into two halves of fifteen (15) minutes each.
Furthermore, Article 7.3.2.3 specifies that if the match remains level after extra time, it will advance to penalty shootouts in accordance with the Laws of the Game, and, where applicable, sudden death penalties.
In the earlier rounds, namely the last 32, last 16, and quarter-finals, matches proceeded directly to penalties if they ended in a draw after regular time (90 minutes).
The four remaining teams are now competing for the first prize of E1.450 million, while the runner-up will receive E650 000. Each of the semi-finalists is guaranteed at least E225 000.
Additionally, individual prizes are available, including E15 000 for the Player of the Tournament, E10,000 for the Best Coach, and E6,000 for the Best Public Relations Officer (PRO), among others, including prizes for the top goal scorer and referee.
