By Siphesihle Dlamini
(At Mavuso Sports Centre)
Mbabane Swallows……………….. (0) 1,
Leon Manyisa 63rd
Nsingizini Hotspurs……………….. (0) 1,
Junior Zidonga 64th
(Nsingizini Hotspurs win 6-5 on penalties)
Mbabane Swallows are out of the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup as Nsingizini Hotspurs soared to a 6-5 victory on penalties after a nail-biting contest at the Mavuso Exhibition & Trade Centre on Wednesday evening.
The victory not only secured a place in the semi-finals for Nsingizini Hotspurs but also set the stage for an exciting showdown against Moneni Pirates, who triumphed earlier in the day in their penalty shootout.
From the moment the whistle blew at the Mbabane Swallows vs Nsingizini Hotspurs game, it was clear that both teams were eager to establish their flying dominance.
The first half was a captivating display of football, characterized by an even distribution of possession and an exchange of attacking moves.
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Fans witnessed a true battle of wills as both teams pushed forward, each determined to find the back of the net. The tension mounted as yellow cards were thrown like arrows to players on both sides.
‘Umkhonto KaShaka’, known for their flair and agility, saw Bongi ‘Karas’ Magagula emerge as the standout performer of the first half.
His skilful dribbling and quick footwork created constant threats against the Nsingizini defence, leaving fans in awe of his talent.
Despite several close calls, neither team could capitalize. Ayanda Gadlela nearly took advantage of a rare mistake from Nsingizini Hotspurs’ Alvin Shabashie, but his timid shot from just outside the 18-yard box lacked the power to trouble goalkeeper Fezile Vilakati.
As the first half drew to a close, the ‘Beautiful Birds’ of Mbabane intensified their efforts, with a rapid one-two exchange between Leon Manyisa and Ayanda Gadlela almost resulting in a crucial goal.
Vilakati, however, was up to the challenge, demonstrating his prowess with a series of impressive saves. Bongi Magagula’s powerful strike just before halftime went wide, leaving the score deadlocked at 0-0.
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The second half saw a resurgence from the ‘Beautiful Birds‘, who dominated possession and created numerous opportunities.
For the first 15 minutes of the half, it seemed only a matter of time before they would break the deadlock. The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute when ‘Karas’ Magagula, exhibiting his playmaking brilliance, set up Leon Manyisa for a free header, which found the back of the net. The stadium erupted in cheers as Swallows took a 1-0 lead.
A minute later, Nsingizini Hotspurs were not to be outdone. The introduction of substitute Junior Zindonga paid immediate dividends as he equalized with a perfectly executed shot from a tight angle, leaving the Swallows’ defence reeling.
With the match level at 1-1, the tension escalated. A golden opportunity presented itself for Manyisa to restore the Swallows’ lead in the 73rd minute.
After receiving a brilliant pass from Bongi Magagula, the striker found himself in a prime position but shockingly missed the target from close range, much to the disbelief of the fans.
With the clock wounding down, neither team could find a winner, and the match was destined for penalties.
In a dramatic conclusion, Nsingizini Hotspurs emerged victorious, converting 6 penalties to Mbabane Swallows’ 5. With their triumph, Nsingizini Hotspurs now look ahead to their semi-final clash against Moneni Pirates.
