Eswatini's national football team, Sihlangu, is set to include midfielder Quality Dlamini in their squad for an upcoming friendly match against Malta. According to sources, Dlamini's recent performances in the MTN Premier League have earned him a national team call-up. His impressive form, particularly in a recent league encounter against Mbabane Highlanders AM, has strengthened his case for a return to the national team.
The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) has confirmed the appointment of Dominic Kunene as interim head coach to oversee the team during the November FIFA international match window. Kunene will work alongside assistant coach Caleb Ngwenya, goalkeeper coach Siza Dlamini, and fitness coach Thokozani Mamba. The interim arrangement allows preparations for the Malta assignment to proceed while the association finalizes the appointment of a substantive head coach.
The EFA is engaged in ongoing discussions with a Moroccan coach, who is being considered for the permanent position. The proposed arrangement is reportedly linked to a memorandum of understanding between the EFA and the Moroccan football authorities. Under the proposed agreement, the EFA would provide the coach with accommodation and a vehicle, while the Moroccan Football Association would meet his remuneration.
Sihlangu's November assignment will be against Malta on November 12 at the Ta’ Qali National Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 6:30pm. This will be the country's first international friendly against a European nation. The team will be seeking to restore confidence after a disappointing AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign, in which they were eliminated by Eritrea 4-1 on aggregate.
In the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign, Sihlangu suffered a 2-0 defeat in the first leg, played in Meknes, Morocco, on March 25. Goalkeeper Mlamuli Makhanya saved a penalty, but Eritrea scored in the 81st minute before adding a second in stoppage time. The return leg at Somhlolo National Stadium on March 31 also ended in a 2-1 defeat.
The Eswatini squad for the Malta friendly is expected to include other key players, such as Justice Figuareido, who is attached to South Africa’s Premiership outfit Chippa United. Figuareido's inclusion is seen as a boost to the team's attacking options. The EFA is expected to announce the Malta squad today.
The incoming substantive coach is expected to join the national team during the November international window and could travel with the delegation to Malta. The coach will also have the opportunity to interview other coaches and select those he wants to work with on his technical bench. Key players like Quality Dlamini and Justice Figuareido are set to play crucial roles in the team's upcoming friendly.
Key points
- Quality Dlamini to be included in Sihlangu squad for Malta friendly.
- Eswatini to face Malta in first international friendly against a European nation.
- Interim coach Dominic Kunene to oversee team during November FIFA international match window.
