Fans in Eswatini have expressed their support for Ubombo Sugar and Mbabane Highlanders AM as their preferred winners of this year’s Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Charity Cup. A poll conducted among supporters revealed that these two teams are considered strong contenders for the coveted trophy. Nsingizini Hotspurs also received backing, with fans affectionately referring to their youthful squad as the ‘Cocomelons’.

The fans’ predictions differ from opinions gathered from local football players and coaches. Players have tipped Ubombo Sugar and Moneni Pirates as the teams to beat, citing their quality recruitment and promising start to the season. Coaches, however, have been reluctant to identify outright favourites, arguing that preparation, mental strength, and tactical execution will determine the winner.

Ubombo Sugar has attracted considerable support among fans, with several supporters openly declaring their allegiance to the Sugar Boys. Some fans have used phrases such as “Bafana bashukela nje” and “Sugar Boys” to express their support. Mbabane Highlanders AM, the defending champions, also enjoyed strong backing, with supporters making their preference clear.

Nsingizini Hotspurs’ youthful squad has attracted attention among supporters, with fans referring to them as the ‘Cocomelons’. This nickname draws inspiration from the popular children’s entertainment show. Despite receiving backing from players, Moneni Pirates did not feature as prominently among the fan responses.

The predictions will now face the ultimate test on the pitch as the four sides battle for places in the final. Highlanders and Ubombo Sugar will open the semi-final programme at 9am, while Moneni Pirates take on Nsingizini Hotspurs at 11am. The two winners will then meet in the final scheduled for 4pm at Somhlolo National Stadium.

With players, coaches, and supporters offering differing assessments of the contenders, the Charity Cup promises an intriguing conclusion. The teams will ultimately have to prove their credentials on the field. The competition has generated significant interest, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.

The Premier League of Eswatini Charity Cup semi-finals and final are set to take place at Somhlolo National Stadium. The tournament has received attention from fans and players alike, with various predictions being made about the potential winners. The competition will determine which team will lift the trophy.

Key points

  • Ubombo Sugar and Mbabane Highlanders AM are the top fan favourites to win the Premier League of Eswatini Charity Cup.
  • The fans’ predictions differ from those of local football players and coaches.
  • The semi-finals and final of the Charity Cup will take place at Somhlolo National Stadium.

Reporting sources

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.