SOCCER – NEWMAN Philiso has been ruled out of Sihlangu’s travelling squad to Morocco after being named in the starting line-up for his new Zimbabwean side Agama yesterday afternoon.
The right back’s club commitments ultimately forced him to miss the cut as head coach Sifiso ‘Nuro’ Ntibane finalised his 20-man squad for the first leg of the 2027 AFCON preliminary qualifier against Eritrea.
Sihlangu departed the country yesterday at noon and travelled to South Africa, where they connected a flight at OR Tambo International Airport at 7pm en route to Cairo, Egypt. The team is expected to proceed to Morocco ahead of the crucial encounter.
Despite Philiso’s absence, Ntibane has assembled a balanced squad that includes a blend of local talent and international experience.
Leading the travelling contingent is captain Lindo Mkhonta, who plies his trade with ZESCO United, alongside midfielder Alakhe Mdluli of AmaZulu FC and striker Justice Figareido from Chippa United.
The squad also features Zimbabwe-based duo Kwakhe Thwala and Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini, while Moneni Pirates players Innocent Pakule and Qiniso Nyawo have earned their maiden call-ups.
Strikers Malangeni Dlamini and Hleliso Gamedze have also been included as Ntibane looks to bolster his attacking options.
Ntibane expressed satisfaction with the preparations, commending the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) for ensuring the team had adequate time to prepare for the assignment.
Captain Mkhonta echoed the coach’s sentiments, stressing the team’s determination to deliver.
“We are ready for the task at hand. As players we know what the game means to us and also to the nation. We will give it our best shot. This is no easy game and we will do everything to get positive results,” he said.
Sihlangu will be aiming for a strong first-leg performance before hosting the return leg at Somhlolo National Stadium next week Tuesday.
TRAVELLING SQUAD
Goalkeepers
Qiniso Nyawo (Moneni Pirates)
Mlamuli Makhanya (Royal Leopard)
Defenders
Lindo Mkhonta (ZESCO United – Zambia)
Mpendulo Simelane (Ezulwini United)
Gift Gamedze (Royal Leopard)
Simanga Masangane (Royal Leopard)
Thulani Njingane (Orbit College – South Africa)
Kwakhe Thwala (Scottland – Zimbabwe)
Midfielders
Neliswa Dlamini (Hard Rock – Zimbabwe)
Junior Magagula (Royal Leopard)
Innocent Dlamini (Young Buffaloes)
Bongwa Matsebula (Young Buffaloes)
Mpendulo Tfomo (Manzini Sea Birds)
Innocent Pakule (Moneni Pirates)
Alakhe Mdluli (AmaZulu – South Africa)
Strikers
Hleliso Gamedze (Royal Leopard)
Malangeni Dlamini (Tabankulu Celtics)
Philani Mkhonto (Manzini Sea Birds)
Joseph Kibonge (Manzini Sea Birds)
Justice Figareido (Chippa United – South Africa)
