Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini exceeded expectations and managed to hold South Africa to a goalless draw in their international friendly match last evening.
Despite being considered underdogs, the national team Sihlangu put up a brave fight, leaving the star-studded Bafana Bafana frustrated at the FNB Stadium yesterday. This draw not only boosts Dominic Kunene’s men ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, but also enhances the country’s standing in the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA). Although the local team had limited opportunities in the first half, they nearly stole the victory in stoppage time, proving themselves to be the better team. Sizolwethu ‘Nunu’ Shababala came close to causing an upset as he watched in agony his shot miss the target by inches, after connecting with a cross from Bongwa ‘Owa’ Matsebula.
Eswatini defended deep, making it difficult for South Africa to break through, despite dominating in possession of the ball. Their Head Coach Hugo Broos led a fairly strong squad, but were hit by injuries. They still proved better in ball possession. The home side only struggled to break through Eswatini’s resilient defence.
Themba Zwane had an early chance for the hosts. His shot lacked the power to test goalkeeper Khanyakwezwe Shabalala. Bafana continued to show their attacking power while the visitors slowly found their shape. It was the home team that created some opportunities, but in vain. Eswatini’s only chance in the opening half came a few minutes before the break, through Mxolisi Mkhonto, whose shot was off-target. In the second half Hugo Broos made a few changes to inject fresh energy into the attack, but Kunene’s men remained unfazed. Attacking midfielder, Philani Mkhonto had an attempt deflected wide just six minutes before the final whistle.
That was not to be the final edge-of-the-seat moment, as Bafana had a promising moment when Lyle Foster delivered a cross that only required a tap-in shortly after the hour mark. Unfortunately, the ball eluded the intended players to meet Khanyisa Mayo, who saw his effort go way over the bar. As the game progressed, the intensity heightened with approximately 15 minutes remaining on the clock. Sihlangu launched a series of attacks, purposefully threatening to break the deadlock. Both sides relentlessly pursued a breakthrough until the final whistle, which saw the neighbours share the spoils.
Eswatini will soon host Libya in the World Cup Qualifiers, but away from home due to a stadium ban by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). South Africa is also preparing for the Qualifiers. Meanwhile, the two countries recently met in the COSAFA Cup, but it was South Africa who emerged winners back then.
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