MBABANE – Eswatini football is set to take centre stage regionally as Moneni Pirates FC travels to Maputo, Mozambique, this Sunday, October 12, to face the formidable Costa do Sol Clube Desportos in an international friendly.
The match is a highlight of Costa do Sol’s 70th Anniversary Celebration and promises a thrilling cross-border encounter, with the Pirates looking to not only compete but also represent the nation with pride. The club is mobilising its loyal fanbase, offering a dedicated supporters’ transport package for the day trip.
Speaking on the club’s sentiment about the trip, the club’s PRO, Meluleki Sluga Simelane stated that the team is “extremely proud to represent Eswatini football beyond our borders.” Simelane emphasised that every international match, friendly or otherwise, is a crucial opportunity to showcase the quality, character, and spirit of Eswatini football while simultaneously strengthening regional ties and providing invaluable exposure to the players.
In a clear sign of the club’s commitment to its fanbase, Moneni Pirates has arranged logistics for supporters to travel to the Campo do Costa do Sol (Moz) for the 15:00hrs kickoff. The supporters’ transport package is set at E300 (Return), with departure scheduled for 8:00 am from Manzini, Liqhaga. The club has been proactive in ensuring safety, with the PRO confirming that, in collaboration with partners, “proper travel logistics” have been arranged. Experienced team coordinators are tasked with overseeing the trip, with safety and comfort being the “top priority.”
The deadline for payment is set for Saturday at 2:00 PM, highlighting the urgency for supporters’ keen on making the journey.
On the pitch, the technical staff views the match as a key component of their strategic development. Simelane revealed that the coaching team will employ a “balanced approach” to the fixture. The game will serve as “both a test and a learning opportunity,” with the core first-choice lineup expected to feature. However, the coach also intends to “give minutes to a few upcoming players to assess their readiness for higher-level competition” and build crucial squad depth.
The decision to face a strong Mozambican opponent is deliberate. The technical team hopes to “measure itself against international opposition, identify key areas for improvement, and build tactical discipline” ahead of both domestic and future continental engagements. The PRO described the game as part of a “broader strategy to elevate the standard of Moneni Pirates football.”
Regarding the financial undertaking, Simelane confirmed that the cost of the trip, which covers transport, accommodation, meals, and match logistics, is being financed through a combination of club funds and contributions from valued partners. The club extended its gratitude to the Directors and sponsors for making the international friendly possible.
The message to the traveling Bhakaniya fans is one of profound appreciation and responsibility. The club urged its supporters to travel responsibly, represent the Moneni Pirates family with pride and respect, and keep the spirit of unity and discipline alive throughout the trip. Sluga concluded the message by challenging the traveling contingent, “Let’s show Mozambique what true Bhakaniya passion looks like,” Simelane said.
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