Africa-Press – Eswatini. The hosting of the country’s 55th Double Celebration at Somhlolo National Stadium seems to have had good spinoffs, as the country’s only football Mecca is now ready to host Premier League games ahead of the 2023/24 season to resume on Friday.
Teams will once again use the artificial turf of the country’s football capital as the Premier League opener will be staged at the national arena that was all along undergoing renovations for the entire season.
The national stadium hosted the international friendly between the Under-23 squad and Mozambique during the 55th Double Celebration held last week Wednesday.
However, the stadium still awaits approval from the Confederation of African Football to host international games. Currently, it is banned after it was diclared unfit to host such games, resulting in Sihlangu and other local clubs hosting their home games in foreign stadiums.
A source close to the matter said all opening MTN Premier League games in the new season would be played at Somhlolo National Stadium except for the Nsingizini Hotspurs versus Manzini Wanderers match, which might be played at Ka-Langa Stadium.
The source confirmed that league games would resume on Friday.
Premier League of Eswatini COO Pat Vilakati also confirmed that the league would kick-off this weekend and a detailed fixture would be released as soon as possible.
“I can confirm that league games will start this weekend. We are currently finalising venues before releasing the fixture. All teams have been made aware of the developments,” he said. Somhlolo Stadium now has a new-look entrance and the VIP seats have been replaced.
Works at the stadium are on-going at the tunnels and VIP lounge while a power generator and big screen are yet to be added, according to EFA President Peter Simelane, who recently gave an update on the renovations.
Week 1 Games
Green Mamba vs Young Buffaloes
Rangers vs Mbabane Swallows
Mbabane Highlanders vs Madlenya
Royal Leopard vs Tambuti
Nsingizini Hotspurs vs Manzini Wanderers
Manzini Sea Birds vs Moneni Pirates
Denver Sundowns vs Illovo
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