Africa-Press – Eswatini. THE Ingwenyama Cup Last 32 saw a glut of goals and giant-killing acts that will live long in the memory.
A total of 49 goals were scored in the opening games of the lucrative tournament. Denver Sundowns scored the highest number of goals when they won 5-0 against Malahleni United at Ka Langa Stadium.
Green Mamba and Ezulwini United scored four goals each.
Ezulwini United player Mphucuko ‘Smoothies’ Dlamini scored four goals and leads the scorers’ chart.
Madlenya towering striker Lethokuhle Gamedze scored a hat-trick in their match against CK Survivors. Five players managed a brace of goals – Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa (Green Mamba), Mxolisi ‘Given’ Lukhele (Malanti Chiefs), Gcina Dlamini (Louis XIV), Lungelo Tsabedze (Royal Leopard) and Phiwa ‘Slwabelwabe’ Dlamini (Young Buffaloes).
The winner for the Top Goal Scorer award will take home E10 000 at the end of the tournament.
praised
Former Malanti Chiefs South African international Charles Molopo is the reigning Golden Boot winner after he scored six goals in one match against Rangers in 2019. Ingwenyama Cup Tournament Public Relations Officer Nkhosilenhle ‘Makawosi’ Masuku has run short of words to describe how they felt about proceedings of the prestigious knockout showpiece on its return.
He praised the standard of football displayed by the various teams since Saturday, when the tournament began.
“We are happy that the Last 32 games were played without any disturbances. We are still waiting for the winner between Sisonke and Manzini Wanderers tomorrow, and then the Last 16 list will be complete.
collaboration
I also want to thank supporters for coming to the stadium in traditional regalia, they really looked amazing. The collaboration of culture and sports is coming okay and we are looking forward to a very interesting next round of games.”
He said the tournament would proceed next weekend.
“After all deliberations, we will then communicate on the date of the draw. It’s a fact that in other countries, knockout tournament draws are done on the pitch thus we are considering that, but at a later stage, probably in the Last 8 of the competition.
“One must conclude by appreciating our sponsor for ensuring that the tournament is staged yet again, ‘Buckle Up, Ibuyile.”
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