South African Men's Netball Team Coach Shiko Mokaila has expressed admiration for Eswatini's netball team following their recent encounter at the Netball Africa Cup in Nairobi, Kenya. The two teams clashed in a thrilling final on Saturday, September 27, which South Africa won 49-45. Mokaila acknowledged that facing Eswatini provided his toughest test of the continental showpiece, mirroring their closely-fought opening match of the tournament.
Mokaila highlighted the pressure of his debut tournament at the helm and credited his side's third-quarter adjustments in the opener as the turning point for their overall success. He praised Eswatini's Mandisa Sihlongonyane, who plays in the centre pass, for his tactical sharp-mindedness and psychological influence on the side. Mokaila stated that Sihlongonyane will always be a threat due to his experience and ability to push his team in critical moments.
The South African coach was also impressed by Eswatini's offensive quality, particularly their shooting combination, which drove the team forward throughout the tournament. He commended the depth Eswatini netball is building and congratulated Team Eswatini on their campaign, noting that the rivalry between the two nations keeps pushing them forward. Eswatini's front line was spearheaded by key players Brandon Dlamini, Sphiwo Dlamini, and Ndukwe Masangane.
Ndukwe Masangane capped off a sensational personal tournament by being crowned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Netball Africa Cup 2026. This achievement is a testament to the team's growth and progress in the sport. The Netball Africa Cup is a premier continental competition that brings together top teams from Africa to compete for the coveted title.
The final match between South Africa and Eswatini was a closely contested encounter, with South Africa ultimately emerging victorious. The match showcased the skill and determination of both teams, with Eswatini pushing the champions all the way. The two teams also had a closely fought opening match, which South Africa won 43-36.
Mokaila's praise for Eswatini's netball team is a significant endorsement of their progress and potential in the sport. The team's performance at the Netball Africa Cup has demonstrated their capabilities and competitiveness at the continental level. With the right support and resources, Eswatini's netball team is poised to make a lasting impact in the sport.
The Netball Africa Cup 2026 was held in Nairobi, Kenya, and brought together top teams from Africa to compete for the title. The tournament provided a platform for teams to showcase their skills and compete against the best in the continent. Eswatini's netball team's impressive performance at the tournament has raised expectations and anticipation for their future competitions.
Key points
- South African Coach Shiko Mokaila praises Eswatini's netball team for their impressive performance at the Netball Africa Cup.
- Eswatini's Mandisa Sihlongonyane was commended for his tactical sharp-mindedness and psychological influence on the side.
- Ndukwe Masangane was crowned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Netball Africa Cup 2026.
