The new season is finally underway, bringing an end to a frustrating pre-season for fans who were left wondering whether their clubs would make all the signings needed to compete.
As is often the case, supporters were left feeling that more could have been done.
Now that the wait is over and the MTN Premier League matches have officially begun, anticipation is high for the next 10 months of thrilling battles, both at the top and bottom of the table.
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This past weekend saw all 16 elite league teams in action for their opening fixtures, and if the first round is anything to go by, fans are in for a treat. Even in these early stages, many teams have shown signs of serious competitiveness, suggesting we are in for a highly entertaining and tightly contested season.
A total of nine goals were scored in the opening round, kicking off the race for the Golden Boot Award in exciting fashion. While some clubs are still finalising their squads, fans got a valuable preview of what their teams might offer this season.
Capital city giants Mbabane Highlanders AM, fresh off their pre-season camp in Pietermaritzburg, looked to continue proving their critics wrong. In their season opener, they lost 0-1 against defending champions Nsingizini Hotspurs. This match gave Highlanders a clue of where they need to improve. I saw a very good player in Andile Cele. This is a very quick player, who is comfortable on the ball and is not afraid to take on defenders.
Nsingizini started aggressively and showed glimpses of the firepower that saw them crowned champions last season, but Highlanders stood their ground and gave a good account of themselves. While some Highlanders supporters seemed less pleased, likely expecting more from their side, I think the team is cooking.
Another headline match from the opening weekend saw Moneni Pirates beat Manzini Wanderers 1-0.
With Wanderers returning after a whole season, I think they have done well to assemble a good team. Now they need to improve the team here and there.
Despite the loss, some Wanderers fans might take this as a wake-up call – it’s still early days, and there’s time to find the right combinations within their talented squad.
Royal Leopard and Young Buffaloes played against each and settled for a goalless draw.
These are two teams that always prove to be hard to beat.
Mbabane Swallows suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to Green Mamba. Given their off-the-field issues, I believe the ‘Beautiful Birds’ tried their best. I had expected a heavier loss but they managed to keep the scoreline respectable.
Tabankulu Celtics beat Sisonkhe 3-0 in a one-sided encounter. For Sisonkhe, the result raises early concerns about their ability to avoid the drop.
While it’s premature to make sweeping judgments, their performance left much to be desired.
Clubs like Sea Birds, Rangers, and Ezulwini United are also trying to find their footing. It was only the first match of the season and I know that they will improve.
Meanwhile, newly-promoted Malanti Chiefs secured a victory over fellow top-flight newcomers Amawele. I’m told it was an exciting match that gave both teams a glimpse of what competing in the elite league is all about.
The 2025-26 campaign promises to be an exciting one. With each of the 16 teams set to play 30 league matches, amounting to 2 700 minutes of action per team, fans can expect plenty of drama and entertainment.
The return of large crowds at the stadiums last Saturday was a welcome sight, and it’s hoped that this support, along with good behaviour, continues throughout the season.
So, with cautious optimism and plenty of excitement, the new season begins. Let’s enjoy the beautiful game, and may fair play prevail.
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