BY NTOKOZO MAGONGO
MBABANE – The stage is set, and Eswatini’s national team, Sihlangu, is ready to battle Madagascar in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers, with seasoned forwards Felix Badenhorst and Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa leading the charge.
Sihlangu’s Head Coach Zdrako Logarusic announced a 24-man squad on Thursday afternoon at Sigwaca House, flanked by Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Marketing and Communications Officer Muzi Radebe. The team is scheduled to begin their intensive camp on Sunday at the EFA Technical Centre in Lobamba as they prepare for the critical second-round preliminary clash.
The much-anticipated qualifiers will see Sihlangu face Madagascar in two decisive legs, scheduled between December 20-22 and December 27-29, 2024. A victory would pave the way for Sihlangu to compete in the tournament proper, set to take place in February 2025 across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Key players like Royal Leopard’s Felix Badenhorst and Green Mamba’s Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa bring a wealth of experience and firepower to the squad. Felix, known for his clinical finishing, and Sikhali, a fan favorite for his dynamic attacking style, are expected to lead by example on and off the pitch.
Other notable inclusions are Mbabane Swallows’ goalkeeper Bongiswa Dlamini, who has been in outstanding form, alongside shot-stoppers Colani Gama of Green Mamba and Mlungisi Nxumalo of Young Buffaloes.
In defense, Green Mamba and Royal Leopard dominate the backline with stalwarts such as Sibongakonkhe Silenge, Gift Gamedze, and Mzwandile Mabelesa ready to shield the team’s goal.
The midfield boasts a mix of youthful energy and experience, with Junior Magagula of Royal Leopard, Neliswa Dlamini of Nsingizini Hotspurs, and Sifiso Matse contributing creativity and stability in the middle of the park.
Coach Logarusic emphasized the importance of teamwork and readiness during the announcement. “We have selected a squad that balances experience and young talent. Madagascar is a strong team, but we are confident in our preparations and the abilities of our players,” he said.
The squad’s composition reflects the dominance of domestic giants Green Mamba and Royal Leopard, each contributing six players. Nsingizini Hotspurs and Mbabane Swallows also feature prominently, showcasing the depth of local talent.
Full Sihlangu Squad:
Goalkeepers:
Colani Gama (Green Mamba)
Mlungisi Nxumalo (Young Buffaloes)
Bongiswa Dlamini (Mbabane Swallows)
Defenders:
Sibongakonkhe Silenge (Green Mamba)
Gift Gamedze (Royal Leopard)
Ndumiso Ndaba (Manzini Sea Birds)
Mzwandile Mabelesa (Royal Leopard)
Mcolisi Manana (Green Mamba)
Mlamuli Msibi (Royal Leopard)
Philiswa Newman (Mbabane Swallows)
Fanelo Mamba (Young Buffaloes)
Kwakhe Thwala (Mbabane Swallows)
Midfielders:
Mpendulo Tfomo (Manzini Sea Birds)
Neliswa Dlamini (Nsingizini Hotspurs)
Sifiso Matse (Royal Leopard)
Thubelihle Mavuso (Nsingizini Hotspurs)
Junior Magagula (Royal Leopard)
Njabulo Thwala (Green Mamba)
Strikers:
Philani Mkhontfo (Mbabane Highlanders)
Sambulo Simelane (Nsingizini Hotspurs)
Owa Matsebula (Young Buffaloes)
Bongi Magagula (Mbabane Swallows)
Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa (Green Mamba)
Felix Badenhorst (Royal Leopard)
The Road Ahead
With the tournament approaching fast, Sihlangu will need to fine-tune their strategy and foster strong team chemistry in the coming weeks. Madagascar, a formidable opponent, is expected to provide stiff competition, but Coach Logarusic remains optimistic about Sihlangu’s chances.
Fans across Eswatini eagerly anticipate the team’s performance, hoping for a historic qualification. The spotlight will be on Felix and Sikhali to inspire Sihlangu to victory and bring pride to the nation.
