Mbabane Highlanders coach Floyd 'Mourinho' Mogale has set a clear goal for the upcoming MTN Premier League 2026/27 season: to lead the team to their first league title in over two decades and qualify for the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League. Mogale's mandate is straightforward, but the task ahead is tough. In their opening match against Green Mamba, Highlanders played to a goalless draw at Somhlolo National Stadium in Lobamba on Saturday.
Mogale expressed satisfaction with the point earned against a tough opponent, stating that it was better than nothing. However, he acknowledged that the team struggled in front of goal, particularly with their top striker out injured and new players still adjusting. The coach emphasized that the team is still in the early stages of the season and will improve as they work on combinations with new players.
Mogale's resolve to achieve the league title is unwavering, and he has warned that he will quit if he fails to deliver. The coach lamented the lack of goals despite creating some scoring chances. He specifically mentioned debutant forward Bhekani Mthembu, who is yet to make a significant impact. Mogale's Highlanders will need to find their scoring form if they are to achieve their goal.
Another South African coach, Selaotse 'Sly' Mosala of Moneni Pirates, is also targeting the league title. Mosala's approach is to take it one game at a time, starting with beating the best teams. His Moneni Pirates edged Nsingizini Hotspurs 1-0 in the MTN Premier League 2026/27 grand opening fixture at Somhlolo National Stadium in Lobamba on Saturday.
Mosala expressed optimism about his team's chances, despite not having his full squad available. He believes that with time, his team will gel and become a formidable force. Mosala's comments suggest that the league title is up for grabs, and several teams are eager to claim it.
Nsingizini Hotspurs coach Mandla Qhogi, also a South African, remains committed to defending his team's title. Qhogi attributed his team's loss to a lack of luck and converting chances into goals. He emphasized that his team will work on their weaknesses, particularly in front of goal, to ensure another successful season.
Qhogi's Nsingizini Hotspurs will aim for a third consecutive CAF Champions League experience. The team's loss to Moneni Pirates was a setback, but Qhogi is confident that they will bounce back. The MTN Premier League 2026/27 season has just begun, and several teams are vying for the top spot.
Key points
- Mogale's Highlanders must win the league title to qualify for the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.
- Mosala's Moneni Pirates and Qhogi's Nsingizini Hotspurs are also targeting the league title.
- The MTN Premier League 2026/27 season has started with several teams expressing optimism about their chances.
