Eswatini's Philani 'Mkasabuli' Mkhonto scores historic first European goal

Eswatini's national team, Sihlangu, made history on Thursday night with a 1-1 draw against Malta, marking their first-ever fixture against European opposition on European soil. The team's captain, Philani 'Mkasabuli' Mkhonto, scored the breakthrough goal in first-half stoppage time at Ta' Qali National Stadium. This milestone goal not only secured a draw for Eswatini but also etched Mkhonto's name into local football history.

The international friendly served as a crucial test for the youthful Sihlangu squad against unfamiliar international styles, aiming to raise the country's footballing profile abroad. The match took a challenging turn when Gift 'Jobe' Gamedze was sent off in the 29th minute, leaving Eswatini with 10 men. Despite this setback, the team showed resilience and determination, with Mkhonto praising his teammates' character and willingness to suffer for the game.

Mkhonto's goal came from an inch-perfect pass by Justice 'Figa' Figareido, allowing him to beat James Sissons and send Eswatini into the break with a priceless lead. This historic goal makes Mkhonto one of the African players to have scored against European sides on the continent. Notably, South African legend Siyabonga Nomvethe achieved a similar feat in 1999 with a winning goal against Sweden.

Malta, with home advantage and a higher ranking in the FIFA World Rankings, started brightly and nearly scored after 19 minutes when a free-kick caused panic in the Eswatini penalty area. However, Sibusiso 'Baraba' Dlamini spilled the ball, and Newman 'Strong' Philiso cleared the danger over the crossbar. The hosts continued pressing but were unable to capitalize until after the restart.

Malta's equalizer came two minutes after the restart when Basil Tuma rose highest to meet Joseph Mbong's delivery and head home the equalizing goal. Despite continued pressure from Malta, Eswatini's defensive organization, led by Simanga 'Stina' Masangane and Nkosingiphile 'Skomota' Shongwe, helped the visitors withstand the pressure and secure a draw.

The draw marked a significant achievement for Eswatini, especially considering they were reduced to 10 men for most of the game. The team's next opponents, Suriname, were held to a goalless draw by Lithuania in another international friendly. Eswatini and Suriname are scheduled to meet in the Netherlands, where Mkhonto and his teammates will seek to build on their historic performance.

Reflecting on the landmark encounter, Mkhonto emphasized his responsibility to lead by example, guiding the younger players while maintaining consistent performances for both club and country. The former Mbabane Highlanders captain expressed pride in leading the young squad and credited the technical team for providing the leadership the national side needed.

Key points

• Eswatini's Philani 'Mkasabuli' Mkhonto scored the country's first-ever goal on European soil.
• The historic goal was scored in a 1-1 draw against Malta in an international friendly.
• The match marked Sihlangu's maiden fixture against European opposition on European soil.