Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Eswatini national football team, Sihlangu Semnikati, has named its squad for the 2025 COSAFA Senior Challenge, set to take place in Bloemfontein, South Africa, starting June 4. The selection notably excludes international-based players such as Justice Figuareido, Mxolisi Mkhonto, Banele Pupu Skhondze, and Lindo Mkhonto, with coach Zdravko Logarusic opting instead for a squad composed entirely of top local league players.
This decision emphasizes homegrown talent from Eswatini’s premier clubs. Key inclusions are Njabulo “D4d” Ndlovu of Green Mamba and Khanyakwezwe Shabalala of Nsingizini Hotspurs, both making a return to the national team. Xolani “Messi” Ngwenya from Moneni Pirates also earned a call-up, adding depth to the squad.
The team blends experienced campaigners with youthful vigor. Veterans like Felix Badenhorst, Sabelo “Sakhali” Ndzinisa, and Junior “Shisa” Magagula bring leadership, while young stars such as captain Kwakhe Tfwala, Neliswa “Tiger” Dlamini, and Mayibongwe “Suarez” Mabuza inject fresh energy. This mix aims to finally propel Eswatini beyond previous COSAFA Cup semifinal exits and inspire hope among fans.
The full squad includes
Simanga Masangane – Royal Leopards FC
Mzwanndile Mabelelsa – Royal Leopards FC
Junior Magagula – Royal Leopards FC
Gift Gamedze – Royal Leopards FC
Felix Badenhorst – Royal Leopards FC
Ayanda Kunene – Royal Leopards FC
Fanelo Mamba – Young Buffaloes FC
Innocent Dlamini – Young Buffaloes FC
Xolani Gama – Green Mamba FC
Njabulo Ndlovu – Green Mamba FC
Sabelo Ndzinisa – Green Mamba FC
Thabo Langa – Mbabane Highlanders FC
Bongiswa Dlamini – Mbabane Swallows FC
Newman Philiso – Mbabane Swallows FC
Sambulo Simelane – Nsingizini Hotspurs FC
Khanyakwzewe Shabalala – Nsingizini Hotspurs FC
Kwakhle Tfwala – Nsingizini Hotspurs FC
Neliswa Dlamini – Nsingizini Hotspurs FC
Mayibongwe Mabuza – Sea Birds FC
Philani Mkhontfo – Sea Birds FC
Mthokozisi Gwebu – Sea Birds FC
Mpendulo Thomo – Sea Birds FC
Mthobisi Zwane – Moneni Pirates FC
Xolani Ngwenya – Moneni Pirates FC
With preparations following the local league’s nearing conclusion, coach Logarusic remains confident in the squad’s potential to make a significant impact at the tournament hosted in Bloemfontein South Africa.
This COSAFA Cup campaign may well be the breakthrough Eswatini football has been waiting for, combining seasoned expertise with emerging talent to rekindle national pride and ambition on the regional stage.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
