Hotspurs President Derrick Shiba says local football is in a crisis and has called for urgent reflection and action.
Speaking after the MVA Ingwenyama Cup clash between Nsingizini and Mbabane Highlanders at Mavuso Sports Centre yesterday, Shiba said the sport needed to clearly define its priorities.
He stressed that local football required a thorough evaluation to determine what was truly needed for its growth.
“There are a lot of things that need to be considered in local football. We need a football Indaba to chart the way forward,” he said.
Shiba also expressed his bewilderment at the recurring incidents of violence in the game.
He said he did not understand the series of attacks and chaos surrounding fixtures, including the recent disturbance during yesterday’s match.
“The violence is unacceptable. Football should bring people together, not create fear and panic,” he said.
Despite the turmoil, Shiba praised the quality of play, noting the tactical intensity of the game. The fixture followed another chaotic league encounter between the two sides last weekend at King Sobhuza II Stadium.
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“There were a bit of emotions involved, otherwise it was a good game at the highest level. It was a typical knockout game where everyone was attacking and also defending,” he said.
Shiba’s post-match remarks highlighted concerns over fan behaviour, player safety, and the direction of domestic football.
“Organisers, clubs, and authorities must come together to restore order and credibility to the sport. Incidents of crowd violence and match-day disorder continue to threaten the integrity and enjoyment of local competitions,” he said.
