MBABANE – Ezulwini United produced a commanding performance to defeat the formidable Mbabane Highlanders 2-0 in a thrilling encounter at the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup.

The Stingers showed determination from the first whistle, pressing high and maintaining possession. Their attacking momentum paid off with a first-half goal that electrified the crowd.

Despite the Highlanders’ attempts to claw their way back into the game, Ezulwini United’s defence stood firm. In the second half, a well-executed counter-attack led to a second goal, sealing the match and ensuring progression in the tournament.

Fans of Ezulwini United praised the team’s spirit and resilience, while neutral supporters acknowledged the Stingers’ impressive display against one of the country’s most established clubs.

The result sends a strong message to the rest of the MTN Premier League as Ezulwini United looks to build momentum for the 2025/26 campaign.

MBABANE – Ezulwini United FC has received a major boost ahead of the 2025/26 campaign with the return of veteran midfielder Mpucuko “Smoothies” Dlamini.

The experienced player, who had retired at the end of the 2024/25 season, has decided to lace up his boots once again, joining the “Stingers” squad for the new MTN Premier League season.

Dlamini, widely respected for his leadership and technical ability, is expected to play a dual role – contributing on the pitch and mentoring the team’s younger players.

“Smoothies’ return could not have come at a better time,” said one club official. “Our youthful squad is full of talent, and his guidance will be critical in helping them adjust to the demands of top-flight football.”

Ezulwini United fans have welcomed the news, praising the club’s ambition to mix youthful energy with seasoned experience as they push for better results in the 2025/26 season.

MANZINI – Trendsetters Highlanders AM FC players left the pitch in a walk of shame following a 2-0 defeat to Ezulwini United in a pulsating encounter yesterday. 

This was during their 2025 8Bet Trade Fair Cup opening game staged at a packed Mavuso Sports Centre. 

MTN Premier League giants Mbabane Highlanders arrived in their newly-unveiled luxurious coach for this occasion.

A Volvo branded in their new black and gold logo, which is a different model from the one used by Royal AM in South Africa. Meanwhile, their South African flamboyant boss, Shauwn ‘Mamkhize’ Mkhize, followed the bus leading a fleet of motor vehicles, including two 2018 Mercedes V-class Maybach Buses.

Among notable figures were Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo and his Tinkhundla Administration and Development counterpart Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, Dvokodvweni Member of Parliament (MP) and Sports Portfolio Committee Chairman Sifiso ‘Haizo’ Shabalala and renowned South Africa  football fanatic Mama Joy, who declared she was here as a number one fan of Highlanders. 

Upon her arrival, ‘MaMkhize’ entertained Highlanders supporters as she joined them in song, emerging from the sunroof of her red Benz  in delight, carrying a cow skull written the phrase ‘MaMkhize says yes to Bull’ using a marker with the old white and black logo next to this writing.

Her players led by new Captain Siphamandla ’24 Reasons’ Maseko, were dressed in a Royal AM kit during their warm-up session, just like returning Head Coach Ernest Mavuso, who in this moment, projected his voice to issue instructions during their clash. 

Manzini – Mbabane Highlanders AM FC were knocked out of the tournament after a decisive 2-0 defeat to Ezulwini United.

Formerly known as “The Bees,” Ezulwini United capitalized on their dominance and a series of errors from the Highlanders to secure their spot in the next round. The match was held at Mavuso Sports ground last night.

Ezulwini United came out strong, controlling possession and putting pressure on the Highlanders’ defence from the start. Their efforts paid off in the first half with a goal that gave them the lead and energized their supporters.

Although the Highlanders tried to find their footing, their struggles continued into the second half. Ezulwini United’s defence held firm, and a late second goal sealed the Highlanders’ fate.

The disappointing performance left many fans bewildered, with spectators in the stadium kept asking themselves, “What were they busy with at Pietermaritzburg at the Camp?”

After the match, a visibly disappointed Highlanders head coach, Ernest Mavuso, addressed the loss.

“It was a tough game,” he said.

“We couldn’t get to our rhythm of play. A lot was not in place with our play.”

Mavuso assured fans that the team would go back to the dressing room to discuss what went wrong and what they could do to improve.

“These boys have great potential,” he added. “I feel bad they didn’t play the way I expected them to play.”

Ezulwini United’s victory not only advances them in the cup but also serves as a strong statement about their form. Ezulwini FC head coach, Musa Manyatsi, reflected on the win, stating, “It was a tough game, taking into consideration that we knew Highlanders is not in the country busy with preparations. Also, I would like to congratulate my boys that they managed to pull this through.”

Manyatsi further stated that going forward, they will have to go back to the drawing board and plan for their next opponent.

Ezulwini will look to carry this momentum into the next round, while the Highlanders will need to regroup and refocus for the rest of the season.