World Cup (Q): Ntibane challenges Eswatini players ahead of Cape Verde clash

Eswatini’s national football team’s interim coach Sifiso Ntibane has urged his wards to build on their last week’s performance against Angola.

Sihlangu SeMnikati gave Angola a big scare forcing them to a two-all draw in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier for Group D.

Which team is Eswatini next meeting with?

Now, Eswatini face Cape Verde at Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde on Monday, a game Ntibane says requires his players to step up their game.

According to a statement from the Eswatini Football Association, Ntibane is urging his squad to build on their recent momentum.

“Sihlangu is prepared to deliver a strong performance in this final away fixture,” the statement reads “Their vibrant showing against Angola demonstrated their capability to create scoring chances and maintain a solid defensive structure, even while holding a 2-0 lead before conceding late goals.

“Expect a disciplined and compact tactical approach aimed at neutralizing Cabo Verde’s potent attack, with quick transitions designed to catch the hosts off guard. Tactical adjustments have sharpened the team’s cohesion, setting the stage for a competitive clash against a Cabo Verde side eager to secure their maiden FIFA World Cup Finals qualification.”

Sihlangu anchor the group’s table.

Eswatini squad for the Cape Verde Match:

GOALKEEPERS; Xolani Gama (Green Mamba F.C.), Khanyakwezwe Shabalala (Nsingizini Hotspurs F.C.).

DEFENDERS; Siphosethu Mabilisa (Young Buffaloes F.C.), Sibonelo Sibandze (Young Buffaloes F.C.), Nkosing’phile Shongwe (Nsingizini Hotspurs F.C.), Sibongakonkhe Silenge (Green Mamba F.C.), Innocent Dlamini (Young Buffaloes F.C.), Lindo Mkhonta (Zesco United F.C.), Mcolisi Manana (Green Mamba (F.C.).

MIDFIELDERS; Simanga Masangane (Royal Leopard F.C.), Junior Magagula (Royal Leopard F.C.), Mxolisi Mkhonto (Moropule Wanderers F.C.), Banele Ndzabandzaba (Police F.C.), Mpendulo Tfomo (Manzini Sea Birds F.C.), Lindani Matsenjwa (Green Mamba F.C.).

STRIKERS; Justice Figareido (Chippa United), Muzi Tsabedze (Manzini Sea Birds F.C.), Joseph Kibonge (Manzini Sea Birds F.C.), Philani Mkhonto (Manzini Sea Birds F.C.), Bongi Magagula (Mbabane Swallows F.C.).