PLE Charity Cup Finals Postponed Due to Rain

The 2026 PLE Charity Cup finals, scheduled to take place at Somhlolo National Stadium, have been postponed due to persistent rainfall, which left the playing surface in an unplayable condition. Premier League of Eswatini CEO Pat 'Kungumusa' Vilakati announced the decision, prioritizing the well-being of all participants. The National First Division final between Nkwene Sundowns and Lozitha Spurs was abandoned after 13 minutes of goalless action. The main final between Mbabane Highlanders AM and Nsingizini Hotspurs was called off before kick-off.

Mbabane Highlanders President Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize welcomed the postponement, stressing that player welfare must come first. "It is sad for the supporters, but it was a good call because of the players. The field was not playable," MaMkhize said. She noted that the decision aligned with the high standards she expects for her club. MaMkhize also celebrated the national team call-up of Highlanders player Qiniso Nyawo and affirmed that her squad would continue preparing while awaiting the rescheduled date.

Nsingizini President Derrick Shiba echoed the safety sentiments, acknowledging the logistical strain: "While this was a welcome change, it hurt deeply because we had invested in preparing for this game." Shiba appealed to organisers to consider sharing gate takings or providing participation fees to assist teams with expenses already incurred. The Charity Cup made a welcome return this year after a seven-year absence, backed by an impressive E1.675 million sponsorship package.

The ultimate champions of the Charity Cup are set to claim E400 000 alongside the trophy, while the runners-up take home E200 000. Both finalists endured gruelling paths to the decider. Highlanders AM squeezed past Ubombo Sugar 5-3 on penalties following a goalless draw, while Nsingizini edged Moneni Pirates 10-9 in a dramatic sudden-death penalty shoot-out.

Moneni and Ubombo earned E100 000 each as losing semi-finalists. The E6 000 Top Goalscorer award remains locked in balance, with no goals recorded across over 180 minutes of football on the day. Two goalkeepers remain in contention for the E5 000 Best Goalkeeper prize. The postponement has caused disappointment among the more than 3 000 crowd, but key club administrators firmly backed the move.

The PLE Charity Cup finals have a significant impact on the teams and players involved. The competition has been a major event in the Eswatini football calendar, with many teams vying for the top prize. The postponement has given teams a chance to regroup and prepare for the rescheduled match.

The rescheduled date for the PLE Charity Cup finals has not been announced. Teams and supporters will have to wait for further updates from the Premier League of Eswatini. The event is expected to draw large crowds and generate significant interest in Eswatini football.

Key points

• The 2026 PLE Charity Cup finals were postponed due to heavy rainfall at Somhlolo National Stadium.
• Mbabane Highlanders President Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize welcomed the postponement, prioritizing player welfare.
• The ultimate champions of the Charity Cup are set to claim E400 000 alongside the trophy.