The Eswatini men's netball team secured a hard-fought 48-43 victory over Kenya at the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi. This win marks their second consecutive victory over Kenya in two years, following their 37-28 triumph at the same stage of the competition last year. The result sets up a dream final against regional rivals South Africa. Eswatini dominated from the opening whistle, with goal shooter Brandon and goal attack Ndukwenhle Masangane converting clinically.
South African tactician Jabulani Vilane made one tactical change to his starting line-up, dropping Mpendulo Mncina to the bench and handing Mandisa Sihlongonyane the centre bib. The attacking duo of Masangane and Brandon were expertly fed by wing attack Sphiwo Dlamini, while Sihlongonyane provided a seamless link between attack and defence. At the back, Captain Fortune Neves was resolute at goal defence alongside Sakhile Maseko at goalkeeping.
Eswatini raced into a 15-9 lead at the end of the opening quarter. However, Kenya rallied in the second quarter, taking the quarter 13-12. Despite the surge in pressure, Eswatini's dominant first-quarter display ensured they held a 27-22 cushion at the half-time break. The hosts continued to chip away at the lead in the third quarter, scoring 11 goals to Eswatini's nine.
Eswatini held a slender 36-33 advantage heading into the final period. During this quarter, Mncina was reintroduced at centre to allow Sihlongonyane a brief respite. The decisive moment came in the final quarter, with Kenya pressing relentlessly for a comeback. Eswatini's defensive unit, anchored by captain Neves, held firm while the attackers converted their chances with ruthless efficiency.
Eswatini outscored the hosts 12-10 in the final period to close out a thrilling five-point victory. This win books their place in the showpiece event against South Africa. The Eswatini team's performance was impressive, with their defensive unit playing a crucial role in securing the win.
The victory is a significant achievement for the Eswatini men's netball team, who are seeking to qualify for the 2027 World Netball Cup. The team's coach, Jabulani Vilane, will be pleased with the team's performance, particularly their ability to hold off Kenya's surge in the second and third quarters.
The final match against South Africa promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams seeking to emerge victorious. Eswatini will look to build on their momentum from this win, while South Africa will seek to avenge their narrow 43-36 defeat to Eswatini in their opening group game.
Key points
- Eswatini men's netball team defeats Kenya 48-43 to advance to the final.
- The win marks Eswatini's second consecutive victory over Kenya in two years.
- Eswatini will face South Africa in the final.
