Sihlangu Faces European Tests Against Malta and Netherlands

Eswatini's national football team, Sihlangu, is set to face Malta and the Netherlands in two European friendlies. The team departed for the assignments, which are part of their development plan. Eswatini Football Association Secretary General Frederick Mngomezulu stated that arranging international friendlies involves significant financial considerations, with the trips expected to cost over a million Emalangeni.

The first match against Malta marks a historic first European encounter for Sihlangu. EFA President Peter 'Samora' Simelane said these international assignments align with His Majesty King Mswati III's ambition of seeing Sihlangu qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup. The friendlies are seen as a step in the right direction towards achieving this goal.

Sihlangu's new captain, Philani 'Mkasabuli' Mkhonto, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent the national team in Europe. He believes the European tour will give players a chance to attract interest from clubs beyond Eswatini and provide exposure. Mkhonto added that the team will give their best shot in the friendlies.

The team is led by interim tactician Dominic Kunene, who has finalized a 23-man squad for the friendlies. Kunene expressed confidence in his players' ability to compete abroad. The squad includes Türkiye-based forward Sithandiwe Mbuli, who could make his senior international debut.

The squad also features a mix of local and international players, including defenders Newman 'Strong' Philiso and Kwakhe 'Stopper' Thwala, and forward Sambulo 'Masoso' Simelane. EFA Vice President Nkosingiphile Shongwe will lead the delegation for the friendlies.

The friendlies against European teams are seen as an opportunity for Sihlangu players to market themselves. Mngomezulu noted that financial resources are a significant factor in arranging international friendlies. The Netherlands, one of Sihlangu's opponents, is home to renowned footballers like Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo.

The European friendlies are expected to improve Eswatini's international ranking and provide players with valuable exposure. Sihlangu's participation in these friendlies marks a significant milestone for the team, which is now counted among African countries to face overseas sides in friendly matches.

Key points

• Sihlangu faces historic European friendlies against Malta and the Netherlands.
• The friendlies are part of Eswatini's football development plan and align with the country's ambitions to qualify for major tournaments.
• The European tours provide Sihlangu players with opportunities to gain exposure and attract interest from international clubs.