BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE– Nsingizini Hotspurs FC have cemented their place among Eswatini football’s elite after completing a remarkable 2025/26 season in which the club won every major domestic trophy on offer while also exporting local talent to clubs outside the country.
The Shiselweni-based side lifted the MTN Premier League title, the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup, and the Ingwenyama Cup in what supporters have described as one of the greatest seasons in the club’s history. The achievements have further strengthened the belief among fans that the name “Nsingizini Hotspurs” has become synonymous with championship success.
Beyond their dominance on the pitch, the club also celebrated the international movement of four players to clubs in Zimbabwe and South Africa, highlighting Nsingizini’s growing influence in player development and regional football. Ugandan striker Joel Madondo secured a move to Richards Bay FC, while Kwakhe Tfwala joined Scotland FC. Sambulo Simelane and Neliswa Dlamini also completed moves to Hardrock FC.
The club’s successful campaign has been praised as a reflection of strong leadership, squad depth, discipline, and consistency throughout the season. Analysts believe Hotspurs’ ability to compete on multiple fronts while developing players for international opportunities demonstrates the growth of the club both on and off the field.
Nsingizini’s dominance this season was perhaps best captured in the Ingwenyama Cup final at Somhlolo National Stadium, where thousands of supporters witnessed the Shiselweni giants edge Green Mamba FC 1-0 after extra time to lift the prestigious trophy for the first time in the club’s history. Striker Ayanda Gadlela emerged the hero on the day after scoring a dramatic 97th-minute winner in a tense final that stretched both sides to their limits. The victory earned Hotspurs a massive E1.45 million prize purse and completed another historic chapter in the club’s remarkable campaign.
Earlier in the season, Hotspurs had already announced themselves as the team to beat after clinching the 2025 8Bet Trade Fair Cup with another narrow 1-0 victory over Green Mamba at the Mavuso Sports Centre. Rising star Quality Dlamini produced a moment of brilliance with a stunning free-kick that sealed the title and handed the club E630 000 in prize money. The triumph also highlighted the emergence of young talent within the squad, with midfielder Yekisizwe “Yeki” Khumalo earning praise for his commanding performances throughout the tournament.
The club’s dominance has also elevated the profile of football in the Shiselweni region, where supporters have continued rallying behind the team throughout the campaign.Matchdays involving Hotspurs regularly attracted passionate crowds as the club established itself as one of the most feared sides in Eswatini football.
Football stakeholders believe the club’s achievements could inspire more investment in youth development and regional football structures, especially as Eswatini clubs continue making strides in both domestic and international competitions.
For many supporters, the 2025/26 season will be remembered not only for the trophies won, but for the way Nsingizini Hotspurs united communities, inspired young footballers, and proudly carried the Shiselweni flag across the football landscape.
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(Courtesy Pic)
