Swazi Observer

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I AM DONE WITH SIHLANGU – ‘LOGA’

By XOLISILE SACOLO | 2024-11-26

SOCCER - UNCEREMONIOUS departure.
The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) faces an urgent challenge to find a new coach for the national team Sihlangu Semnikati after Zdravko Logaruši? resigned with immediate effect.

The Croatian-born coach confirmed his departure yesterday, citing unresolved issues with the football governing body.

Logaruši?, who has been in talks with the EFA for weeks, announced his decision to leave Eswatini during an interview, saying he had already packed his bags and was heading home today.

“I think I can tell you as a matter of fact that I am going back home. As you can see now, I am doing my shopping because I am leaving tomorrow,” he said.

The coach, who previously managed Zimbabwe, last attended Sihlangu’s training sessions two weeks ago in preparation for their match against Guinea-Bissau. Despite being seen watching MTN Premier League games at Mavuso Sports Centre on Sunday, he did not travel with the team for their 1-all draw against Guinea-Bissau at Mbombela Stadium.

He was also absent during the national team’s humiliating 0-6 defeat to Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Sources suggest that Logaruši?’s absence stemmed from a financial dispute, including his demand for a E60 000 travel allowance, which was reportedly unmet. Logaruši? made it clear that his resignation was final.

“I will not be coming back. This is all I can tell you as I am preparing to fly out of Eswatini tomorrow,” he said.

When pressed on whether there was a possibility of returning, he said it would only happen under specific conditions. “EFA is aware of this as I have already met with the CEO. I will not come back unless otherwise. But for now, I can tell you that I am gone,” added Logaruši?.

With less than three weeks before the next round of African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers, the EFA is under immense pressure to find a replacement. Logaruši?’s resignation has left Sihlangu in a precarious position, raising questions about the team’s preparations and morale ahead of crucial matches.

The coach declined to elaborate on the reasons for his departure, saying the EFA was fully informed.

“I am not trying to be special, but we have to agree on something,” he said, hinting at unresolved contractual or logistical issues. The EFA has not yet released a formal statement regarding Logaruši?’s resignation or plans for his replacement.

With time ticking down, fans and players alike will be eager to see how the association handles this sudden setback.

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