By Sibusiso Masilela
Demolished!
Sihlangu were demolished by Mali in the last match of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
The nations suffered a 6-0 drubbing at the hands of the already qualified West Africans in a dead rubber Group I fixture played at the Stade de 26 Mars (Bamako) on Tuesday.
The defeat added more woes for the nation’s pride following the disappearance of Croatian coach Zdravko Logarusic, who recently went Absent without official leave (AWOL).
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The nation’s pride had to finish the group stages under the guidance of assistant coach Sifiso ‘ Nuro ‘ Ntibane.
Ntibane started with the same lineup that played a 1all draw against Guinea Bissau five days ago at Mbombela Stadium.
The ex-Royal Leopard gaffer (Ntibane) continuity didn’t work out for the senior national side as Mali drew first blood seven minutes into action through El Billal Toure.
The home side the floodgates ten minutes later when Nene Dorgeles doubled the advantage.
Dorgeles completed his brace in the 23rd minute.
Kamori Doumbia made it four before two minutes before halftime allowing the hosts to enjoy a healthy four-goal cushion into the break.
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The situation got worse for Sihlangu during the second half as Dorgeles made it five in the 75th minute before Doumbia completed his brace within referees’ optional time much to the delight of the home fans.
The senior national side finished the qualifiers at the bottom of the group with two points.
Mali and Mozambique sealed their places in the next finals of the continent’s showpiece scheduled for Morrocco following the neighbour’s 2-1 away win over Guinea Bissau.
Sihlangu
Xolani Gama, Sibonelo Sibandze, Fanelo Mamba, Sibongakonkhe Silenge, Ndumiso Ndaba, Siboniso Ngwenya, Neliswa Dlamini, Kwakhe Tfwala, Sabelo Ndzinisa, Junior Magagula, Bongwa Matsebula
