SOCCER – UNCONFIRMED reports suggest that Sihlangu SeMnikati could have a new coach as early as next month, as the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) moves to stabilise the senior men’s national team ahead of crucial international assignments.
Sources working closely with the team revealed that discussions around the recruitment of a permanent coach are expected to intensify before the end of this month, raising optimism that an appointment could be made in February. However, the association has cautioned that the process was still at an early stage.
Sihlangu has been without a full-time head coach for several months following the departure of Croatian-born tactician Zdravko Logarusic. The EFA appointed Sifiso ‘Nuro’ Ntibane and Ernest Mavuso on interim bases as it reviewed its long-term technical direction for the national team.
EFA Deputy President and Chairman of the Technical and Development Committee (TDC) Nkosingiphile Shongwe confirmed that the committee tasked with recruiting the new coach was yet to formally begin its work.
Speaking to Eswatini TV, Shongwe said they planned to meet at the end of January to map a way forward.
“It is only after that meeting that we are expected to come up with a long-term plan that is comprehensive, so that everyone can see the calendar. At the moment, we are still at elementary stages because a retreat is also in the pipeline,” he said.
The urgency to finalise the coaching situation has been heightened by Sihlangu’s upcoming competitive fixtures. On Tuesday, Eswatini were drawn against Eritrea in the preliminary round of the Total Energies 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The two-legged tie will determine which nation advances to the group stages of the continental competition, placing added pressure on the EFA to ensure stability and clear leadership within the team.
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Logarusic’s exit followed a turbulent period marked by controversy. Despite having two months remaining on his contract, the EFA terminated his agreement, reportedly paying him E120 000 in compensation.
His commitment had been questioned after he was allegedly seen coaching a Saudi Arabian side while still employed by the EFA. He also stirred debate by claiming that only one Sihlangu player was a full professional, with the rest holding part-time jobs.
Following his departure, the EFA confirmed Ntibane as Acting Head Coach, with Mavuso serving as Acting Assistant Coach, while the rest of the technical and management staff remained unchanged.
