‘Birds’ for Angola pre-season cup

By Sibusiso Masilela

The Birds are set to fly high in the new season.

The capital city giants have been invited to an international pre-season tournament in Angola.

The friendship cup will feature eight teams: Wiliete SC from Benguela de Agosto, Luanda City FC, Sagrada Esperança, Interclube, and Académica do Lobito between September 8 -14,2025 at the São Filipe and Buraco Stadiums in the cities of Benguela and Lobito.

The tournament will kick-off a day after the conclusion of the 2025 8Bet Trade Fair set to take place between August 30-September 7, 2025, at Mavuso Sports Centre.

Swallows Governor Welile Mabuza confirmed the latest news when reached for comment.

“Yes, it’s true that we have been invited to the tournament in Angola. The tournament will help us in our preparations for the League and give our players the required international exposure. The organisers of the tournament will shoulder all expenses,” he said.

The red and white glamour side will take on Manzini Sea Birds in the last 16 of the 2025 8Bet Trade Fair cup.

The crowd pullers recently partnered with Mozambique investors Donaldo Birange Enterprises on a three-year deal.

The partnership further saw the arrival of Mozambique coach Dario Monterio as the new head coach.