The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Disciplinary Committee has handed out heavy fines to MTN Premier League champions Nsingizini Hotspurs and capital city giants Mbabane Highlanders following on-field brawls that marred the recently concluded season.
Nsingizini Hotspurs were hit with a staggering E50 000 fine, while Highlanders were penalised E25 000 after both clubs were found guilty of breaching the EFA’s code of conduct in incidents involving players, officials and even supporters.
The disciplinary hearings were held on Tuesday evening at Sigwaca House and the verdicts reflect growing concern over the violent scenes that have plagued Eswatini football in recent months.
The first incident occurred during the first-round clash between Highlanders and Nsingizini at King Sobhuza II Stadium, where tempers flared and a mass brawl broke out between players. Matters escalated further in the return leg at Mavuso Sports Centre, where chaos erupted again – this time involving not only players but also team officials and fans.
The situation worsened when Highlanders became embroiled in yet another violent incident during their second-round clash with Mbabane Swallows, also at Mavuso Sports Centre.
Following their disciplinary hearing, Nsingizini were found guilty and fined E50 000, though E15 000 of the fine was suspended for six months, on condition that the club avoid similar misconduct during that period. As a result, they must pay E35 000 immediately.
Mbabane Highlanders, on the other hand, were fined a flat E25 000 for their repeated involvement in unsporting conduct.
The third team involved in the fracas, Mbabane Swallows, failed to attend the hearing. According to Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Prosecutor Charles Manda, the club’s case has been deferred and will be heard at a later date.
EFA’s tough stance comes amid growing calls from stakeholders and fans for stronger discipline and protection of the game’s integrity. As the league continues to grow in popularity, the association is clearly sending a message: violence will not be tolerated.
