Madlenya send Wanderers packing

Madlenya FC 1 (Thobelani 22’)
Manzini Wanderers 1 (Mlamuli 14’)
Madlenya won 4–2 on penalties

SOCCER — History repeated itself in cruel fashion for Manzini Wanderers as they were once again knocked out of the Ingwenyama Cup by Madlenya FC, losing 4–2 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in regulation time in a tense Last 32 encounter.

Just like in January 24, 2024, when Madlenya eliminated Wanderers on penalties at Mavuso Sports Centre, the maroon and white were left rueing missed chances and an unforgiving shootout as the same opponents brought their cup journey to a premature end.

Wanderers showed early intent and nearly struck inside the opening minute when Malwande Gwebu flashed a shot inches wide after a slick attacking move.

However, Madlenya FC quickly regrouped and began to dominate possession, forcing Wanderers onto the back foot for long spells. The Manzini giants were buoyed by the return of club captain Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule, alongside new signings Mthunzi ‘Chippa’ Motsa and Sifiso ‘Tjovitjo’ Maseko.

Despite the experience in their ranks, Madlenya carved out the next clear opening in the eighth minute, only for Wanderers goalkeeper Mario Jamine to deny Siphosethu Simelane with a sharp save.

The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when the returning ‘Mlaba’ gave Wanderers the lead, finishing clinically from close range after a neat short pass by youngster Sandile Maseko, with Madlenya defenders caught flat-footed inside the six-yard box.

ALSO READ: NIGERIAN TRIO JOINS WANDERERS

Madlenya responded swiftly. In-form striker Thobelani Gamedze restored parity in the 22nd minute, tapping home with ease to make it 1–1 and set the tone for an evenly balanced contest.

Injuries and tactical changes disrupted Wanderers’ rhythm after the half-hour mark, as Paballo Yende and Sizolwethu Mdvoti were introduced, while ‘Mlaba’ and the injured Siyabonga Xaba made way.

Madlenya also freshened up early in the second half, bringing on Lungelo Matsenjwa.

Both sides pushed for a winner, with chances at either end. Sehluko Nkabindze came close with a long-range effort just after the hour mark, while Mdvoti blazed over moments later.

Madlenya were equally wasteful, with Simelane’s dangerous low cross evading everyone in the box.

A dramatic moment arrived in the 70th minute when Simelane lobbed Jamine, only for Wanderers defender Sihle Mkhonta to heroically clear the ball off the line.

Despite late pressure and two added minutes signalled by referee Thulani Sibandze, neither side could find a decisive goal and penalties followed — once again favouring Madlenya FC.

Wanderers missed crucial spot-kicks as Sphamandla and ‘Chippa’ failed to convert, while their goalkeeper was unable to make a save, sealing another painful Ingwenyama Cup exit at the hands of familiar foes.