By Phesheya Ian kunene
MBABANE – The football gods have spoken, and they’ve called Joma Sport SA into the mix just in time for the biggest schools’ soccer bash of the year!
As the clock ticks down to the much-anticipated INSTACASH Schools Soccer Tournament finals set for Friday, June 20, at the Mavuso Sports Centre, kit kings Joma Sport SA have thrown serious weight behind the showpiece, dishing out E130 000 worth of top-drawer gear for the two gladiators: Manzini Central High and Evelyn Baring High.
Yes, fam, the two giants are set to lock horns in a repeat of last year’s spicy final, where Manzini Central turned Evelyn Baring into toast with a sizzling 6–1 demolition at Somhlolo Stadium. Now, Evelyn Baring are back with revenge on the brain, but they’ll both be dressed to kill, thanks to Joma’s classy gesture.
The Spain-rooted brand, through its SA arm, is suiting up both sides with 20 full kits each, which include jerseys, tracksuits, bibs, tees, and boot bags, all stacked and fresh, just in time for the final whistle.
Joma Sport SA MD Sipho Mngomezulu was left buzzing after catching the semis in Nhlangano last Friday, saying he was blown away by the vibe, the fans, and the fire the young stars brought to the field.
“We’re proud to support such energy and talent. This partnership is big for us as we grow globally. ESSA and INSTACASH have done an amazing job,” Mngomezulu said.
ESSA treasurer Lucky Dlamini couldn’t hold back the love either, calling the sponsorship a “game-changer” for school football.
“This will push the boys to dream bigger. It shows that corporate players are watching, and they’re impressed.”
INSTACASH MD Mandla ‘Cheeks’ Nxumalo, who’s been one of the loudest cheerleaders behind the tournament, said the Joma deal was proof that quality presentation brings premium sponsors.
“We’ve always believed in packaging this tournament like a professional league, and now it’s paying off,” Nxumalo said with a smile.
Also on the menu this Friday is the third-place playoff between Nhlangano Central and Mpaka High, who will be looking to end on a high note after bruising exits in the semis.
This year’s tournament has seen INSTACASH kit out all 16 Top 16 schools, marking a return to full-kit glory after a three-year break. The schools kitted include names like Mhlatane, Ekuphakameni, Siphocosini, Emcozini, Lusoti and, of course, the four finalists.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Websters Stationery and Eswatini TV are also in the sponsor squad, backing what’s shaping up to be the most hyped school soccer finale of the decade.
So, Manzini, come Friday, bring your flags, your vuvuzelas, and your football fever. It’s about to go down at Mavuso, and this time, it’s not just about bragging rights, it’s about pride, legacy, and who looks best lifting the trophy in brand-new Joma drip.
(Courtesy Pic)
