Africa-Press – Eswatini. Sihlangu put a brave fight before suffering a 2-1 defeat against Botswana’s Zebras in an international friendly match held at Lobatse Sports Complex Tuesday.
The team led by Dominic Kunene conceded early in the first half and again late in the second half, ultimately granting the Zebras a victory on their home turf. Sihlangu, who were unbeaten in more than half a dozen away fixtures, managed to score a goal through Neliso ‘Shaka’ Myeni, who headed in a curling cross from Mxolisi Manana in the 54th minute, cancelling out Botswana’s first-half lead. The hosts had initially broken the deadlock in the 11th minute with a well-placed header from Tumisang Orebonye, leaving goalkeeper Xolani Gama with no choice. While it is fair to say that the Zebras dominated proceedings in the first half, creating numerous chances but only converting one, Sihlangu struggled to assert themselves and rarely tested the opposition goalkeeper.
The second half presented a different scenario as the away side launched relentless attacks and were duly rewarded with an equaliser approximately 10 minutes into the half, courtesy of the Nsingizini Hotspurs striker. The game seemed destined for a 1-1 draw, but the home side demonstrated more determination and eventually secured the winner with just 11 minutes remaining. The goal came from Lemogang Maswena, who capitalised on a goalmouth scramble, catching the goalkeeper Gama offguard. Despite their persistent attacks, Sihlangu were unable to find the equalising goal. This was the second friendly match for Sihlangu, following a goalless draw against Bafana Bafana last Friday. These matches served as preparation for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers scheduled for next month. Sihlangu will host Libya at Mbombela Stadium, while Botswana will face Mozambique in their World Cup qualifier.
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