Mbabane – Defending Champions Green Mamba lost on a chance to permanently keep the Ingwenyama Cup trophy.
This is after the crushed out of the lucrative football competition following a narrow 0-1 defeat to Royal Leopard.
The rules of the game stipulate that once a team is crowned champions three consecutive times, they are then entitled to permanently keep the trophy.
Mbabane Swallows is the only team that has ever won the Ingwenyama Cup three consecutive times and earned the right to permanently keep the trophy.
Meanwhile, Royal Leopard booked their spot in the quarter-finals of the prestigious Ingwenyama Cup afterdefeating the defending champions 1-0 in a thrilling last-16 clash at Mayaluka Stadium yesterday.
The victory means Green Mamba, the holders of the richest knockout tournament in Eswatini, have been dethroned in a dramatic upset.
Royal Leopard, known as Ingwemabalabala, signaled their intent early in the match, launching attacks from all angles.
Their efforts paid off in the 15th minute when striker Thokozani ‘Thikithi’ Dlamini struck a superb goal. Receiving a precise pass from Felix Badenhorst, Thikithi fired a powerful shot past Green Mamba goalkeeper Xolani Gama, sending Leopard fans into wild celebrations.
The atmosphere at Mayaluka Stadium was electric, with passionate supporters from both teams filling the stands, eager to witness their side progress to the next stage of the tournament.
From the kickoff, both teams showcased determination and intensity. Green Mamba, aiming to retain their crown, tried to control possession with their skillful midfielders dictating the play.
They sought to create scoring opportunities but struggled to breakthrough Royal Leopard’s resolute defence, which was well-organised and disciplined.
As the half progressed, Royal Leopard began to assert themselves, especially on the counter-attack. Their pacey wingers and quick transitions exposed defensive gaps in Green Mamba’s setup, and Thikithi’s goal proved to be the turning point.
Green Mamba responded with urgency, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their attacking players displayed creativity and flair, testing Leopard goalkeeper Mlamuli Makhanya on multiple occasions.
However, Makhanya was in fine form, pulling off crucial saves to keep his side ahead.
The first half ended with Royal Leopard leading 1-0. The stage was set for a gripping second half, with Green Mamba aiming to rally and Royal Leopard determined to hold their lead.
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