Nhlangano – Nsingizini Hotspurs successfully defended their MTN Premier League title yesterday afternoon after grinding out a 1-0 victory over regional rivals Rangers at a packed King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium.
The victory, secured with two games remaining in the season, moves the Shiselweni giants to an unassailable 61 points at the top of the table. Mlungisi Hlatjwako proved to be the hero of the day, netting the decisive goal in the 89th minute to spark wild celebrations among the green and white faithful.
The win opens an eight-point gap over second-placed Manzini Sea Birds, whose championship hopes faded entirely following a frustrating goalless draw against a stubborn Malanti Chiefs side.
By securing the league crown, Hotspurs completed a clean sweep of every domestic trophy on offer during the 2025/26 campaign. The treble includes the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup, the MVA Ingwenyama Cup, and the premier league title itself.
This domestic dominance opens regional doors for the club, as Hotspurs have now qualified for both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup. Because continental rules prohibit a team from participating in both tournaments simultaneously, the club management must choose which tournament to enter next season.
Beyond their success on the field, the club established a footprint outside Eswatini borders by exporting four key players during the campaign. Ugandan striker Joel Madondo secured a move to South African side Richards Bay FC, Kwakhe Tfwala joined Scotland FC, while Sambulo Simelane and Neliswa Dlamini both signed with Zimbabwean outfit Hardrock FC.
Despite having wrapped up the championship, Hotspurs must still fulfill their remaining two fixture commitments against Royal Leopard and Manzini Sea Birds before officially lifting the trophy.
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