Swazi Observer

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ROYAL BOX UNDERLINES SWALLOWSâ€™ MATCH IMPORTANCE

By Sibongiseni Zondi | 2018-03-20

SOCCER - THE importance of Mbabane Swallows’ CAF Champions League match on Saturday was underlined by the presence of senior members of the Royal Family inside the Somhlolo National Stadium Royal Box.

The Birds won the first round second leg match against Zambian side Zanaco 1-0 (3-1 on aggregate) to become the first Swazi side to qualify for the group stages of Africa’s premier club competition. During the match played on Saturday afternoon, the Royal Box, Somhlolo’s VVIP section, was packed with dignitaries from different sectors of life. Among them were senior members of the Royal Family, Princes Masitsela and Hlangabeza. Also present was Pastor David Chaliyumba who officiated during the night vigil and funeral service of the late Swallows boss Victor ‘Maradona’ Gamedze. Chaliyumba rarely attends football matches. Also spotted were top lawyer Sdumo Mdladla, National Football Association of Swaziland (NFAS) officials as well as Premier League of Swaziland (PLS) officials.

Speaking to this publication yesterday, Swallows General Manger Sandile ‘Beyond 2000’ Zwane hailed the presence of Royalty during the math and said it was a sign that the whole of Swaziland was behind his side.

“It was humbling to see bantfu labadzala there. It shows that we are no longer just representing Mbabane Swallows as we have been saying all along; we are now playing for the whole country. It also shows just how big a brand this football club has become. We are really thankful to all the dignitaries who came and supported us as well as all the Swazis who filled up Somhlolo on Saturday. It was huge motivation for us,” Zwane said.

Zwane then appealed to the country to continue supporting his side as they get into the group stages.

“We are thankful for the support we have received from the FA as well as our sponsors and partners like Swazi Mobile, Inyatsi, Nedbank and Pick and Pay. All these entities have contributed immensely to our success. We would like to appeal to all pastors across the country to continue praying for us. If we put God first we know that we will succeed,” Zwane said.

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