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By Nomalungelo Phiri | 2024-11-10
Soccer – A hero is never gone as long as their memory lives on.
In today’s highly anticipated MTN Premier League capital city derby, Mbabane Highlanders will face their fierce rivals Mbabane Swallows in a match with profound meaning.
As they step into the field, Highlanders are driven by a mission not just for league points, but to honour the legacy of one of their own, former player Innocent ‘Ten Ten’ Ginindza.
Highlanders aim to make Ginindza’s memory shine bright with a victory and the team’s patron, Benson Dlamini, has called upon players and fans alike to show up in numbers to pay tribute to Ginindza, a beloved figure in Eswatini football.
"We would like to thank ‘Barnes’ for winning the match in the middle of the week, especially after we heard the news about ‘Ten Ten’. Despite that, the team got the win, and I believe we will be able to do the same against Swallows," he said.
The midweek victory over Young Buffaloes has instilled hope and determination in the team, and today they look to build on that momentum in honour of their fallen legend.
Ginindza’s life was celebrated in a heartfelt memorial service at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church yesterday, where family, friends and former teammates gathered to remember his talent and joyful spirit.
Dlamini expressed his gratitude to Highlanders supporters and the football community who attended the service, acknowledging the role they played in supporting Ginindza during his last days. He also called on the younger generation to carry forward the spirit of Highlanders.
“I worked with ‘Ten Ten’ and other legends over the years. I am grateful to Mbabane Highlanders for nurturing Ginindza and to his family for supporting him through his football journey. His father also played for Highlanders, so the Ginindza legacy is deeply tied to our club," added Dlamini.
Another Highlanders legend Harare Tfwala who thanked the Ginindza family and his children for their strength and care throughout his illness.
“My sincere appreciation goes to his children for being steadfast and standing by him, and to the Mbabane Clinic staff for their efforts in trying to save his life,” he said.
Another close friend and former teammate, Brian Nsibande, recalled Ginindza’s talent from his youth, playing for Highlanders' junior teams before eventually joining the U-19 national team.
Today’s derby at Mavuso Sports Centre holds a special place in the hearts of Highlanders supporters and players alike, as they aim to secure a second consecutive victory under extraordinary circumstances.
With the memory of ‘Ten Ten’ Ginindza as their inspiration, the Highlanders are ready to fight for a win that resonates beyond the league standings—a tribute to a life devoted to the club and the sport he loved.
Ginindza will be laid to rest this morning at Siphocosini, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans, family, and the Highlanders fraternity.
His journey from a young, talented midfielder promoted to the senior team at 18 to a cherished football legend will forever be remembered.
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