CAF Champions League
Simba SC vs Nsingizini Hotspurs
Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, 3PM
It’s do-or-die time for Eswatini’s representatives, Nsingizini Hotspurs, as they step into the lion’s den of Tanzanian football — the intimidating Benjamin Mkapa Stadium — for their CAF Champions League second preliminary round return leg against Simba SC this afternoon.
With a 3–0 deficit from the first leg at Somhlolo National Stadium, Mandla Qhogi’s charges face a mountain to climb against one of Africa’s most formidable sides.
The Tanzanian giants, backed by a fan base of over 20 million supporters and a 60,000-seater stadium expected to be packed to the rafters, are poised to complete the job on home soil.
A Test of Courage and Belief
For Nsingizini, this is more than a football match — it’s a test of courage, discipline, and belief. Despite the odds, Coach Mandla Qhogi insists his side has not given up hope.
“Even though the deficit is worrying, we still have a chance to turn things around,” he said before departure. “We’ve taken lessons from the first leg and the boys are motivated to fight for our badge.”
In preparation for the ear-splitting atmosphere awaiting them in Dar es Salaam, the team has taken an innovative psychological approach — training to the sound of Simba fan songs blasted through loudspeakers.
“We wanted the players to get used to the loud noise and chants they’ll face. Most will be playing in such a setting for the first time, and we don’t want them overwhelmed,” Qhogi explained.
Injury Setbacks but Undying Spirit
Qhogi has had to contend with several injuries, with Thando Langa, Bongiswa ‘Phumba’ Dlamini, and Luyanda ‘Lux’ Nhlengetfwa all ruled out. Still, the coach remains undeterred.
“We may be underdogs, but football is full of surprises,” he said.
Nsingizini’s first-leg defeat at home was a harsh introduction to the ruthlessness of continental football. For 45 minutes, they went toe-to-toe with Simba, creating chances through Ayanda Gadlela and Thubelihle Mavuso, before a moment of indiscipline changed the game.
A reckless challenge from Kwakhe Thwala on Naby Camara gifted Simba a set-piece that led to Wilson Nangu’s header in first-half stoppage time. Substitute Denis Kibu sealed the result with a late brace as Nsingizini’s frustrations boiled over.
‘Discipline Is Key’
The performance did not go unnoticed by Shiselweni Regional Administrator Themba Masuku, who attended the match.
“They must improve on discipline. You cannot be collecting useless yellow cards. Once you get angry, your opponent takes advantage,” Masuku said.
It is that composure and focus that Nsingizini will need in abundance today.
Simba Confident, Nsingizini Defiant
Simba, led by star midfielder Neo Maema, are confident of finishing the job.
“We played against a very good side that challenged us. We will seal the deal back home, but we know it won’t be easy,” Maema said.
Hotspurs’ Public Relations Officer Mnotfo Nkosi confirmed that the clash is officially sold out.
“It will be the first time our players compete in front of such a massive crowd. We have urged them to stay calm and focused. Anything is possible in football,” he said.
A Battle of Spirit and Resilience
Nsingizini know all about defying the odds. In the previous round, they overturned a 1–0 first-leg deficit against Zimbabwe’s Simba Bhora, winning 1–0 in the return leg before triumphing 4–2 on penalties — a night that etched their name in Eswatini football history.
That fighting spirit will be their greatest weapon tonight in Dar es Salaam. Facing a side that thrives on relentless attacking play and the deafening roar of a packed stadium, Nsingizini must stay disciplined, take their chances, and believe.
The odds are heavily stacked against them — but as Coach Qhogi reminded his squad before departure:
“Dreams are free, and football has seen miracles before. We go there to fight, not to surrender.”
