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SIHLANGU’S CHAN DREAM ENDS

By JONGILE XUBA | 2024-12-30

Madagascar …….………...... (0)0
Eswatini ................................. (0)1
SOCCER - NOT all dreams come true!
Sihlangu Semnikati’s CHAN dreams came to a bittersweet end despite a spirited 1-0 victory over Madagascar in the second leg of their qualifier, played at the Cote D’Or Stadium in Mauritius yesterday.

The narrow win was not enough to overturn the 2-0 deficit from the first leg, leaving Eswatini’s pride just shy out of the CHAN finals.

Sihlangu entered the match with a daunting task of scoring three goals away from home, which is something they had never achieved in their history while keeping a clean sheet. The pressure was evident as the game began, with the team showing early nerves.

Madagascar, familiar with the stadium’s conditions, quickly seized the initiative and threatened to extend their aggregate lead with three dangerous chances in the opening 28 minutes. Goalkeeper Xolani Gama’s slip while clearing the ball nearly gifted Madagascar a goal, but luck was on Sihlangu’s side as the opposition failed to capitalise.

As the first half progressed, Sihlangu slowly settled into their rhythm, creating half-chances and building momentum.

By halftime the score line remained 0-0 with the dream of CHAN qualification still alive but hanging by a thread.

The second half saw a more determined Sihlangu take control and Neliswa ‘Tiger’ Dlamini nearly broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute, only to see his shot blocked by Madagascar’s goalkeeper.
Coach Zdravko Logaruši? introduced fresh legs, bringing on Bongi ‘Karas’ Magagula and Njabulo ‘Mazza’ Thwala in the 63rd minute.

The substitutions sparked life into Sihlangu’s attack, with ‘Mazza’ forcing a save just minutes after coming on and Andy Magagula’s long-range effort narrowly missing the target.

As the clock ticked down, Sihlangu’s urgency grew. The introduction of Sambulo ‘Masoso’ Simelane added pace to the flanks, and their relentless pressure finally paid off in the 85th minute. A headed pass into the box found ‘Masoso,’ who rifled a stunning shot into the top corner, igniting hopes of a dramatic comeback.

In the dying moments, Mpendulo Tfomo came close to doubling Sihlangu’s lead, while Andy Magagula’s free kick in added time forced a top-class save from Madagascar’s keeper.
Despite their improved performance and valiant efforts, Sihlangu could not find the additional goals needed to secure qualification.

The referee’s final whistle brought the match to a close, sending the home crowd into jubilant celebrations and leaving Eswatini heartbroken but proud of their team’s fight.

Coach Logaruši?’s side may not have advanced, but their performance reflected a team growing in confidence and capability. From a nervy start to a strong finish, Sihlangu showed glimpses of their potential and left fans hopeful for the future.

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