SOCCER – Nsingizini Hotspurs midfield maestro Yekisizwe ‘Yeki’ Khumalo has underlined his growing reputation as the country’s finest footballer after being named Player of the Tournament in the just-ended 8Bet Trade Fair Cup.
The reigning MTN Premier League Player of the Season produced another masterclass display, driving his team to cup glory at the Mavuso Sports Centre. His performances were as decisive as they were commanding, ensuring that Insingizi Yezulu capped off a fairytale run with a 1-0 victory over Green Mamba in the grand finale. For his brilliance, Khumalo pocketed E10 000 in prize money.
‘Yeki’ featured in all four matches of the tournament, showcasing leadership, composure, and unyielding consistency.
Nsingizini’s journey to the crown began with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Tabankulu Celtics in the last 16, before a tense penalty shootout triumph against Malanti Chiefs in the quarterfinals. The semi-finals match against Manzini Sea Birds brought more drama, ending 0-0 after 90 minutes, with Khumalo once again showing nerves of steel to slot home from the spot.
In the final, he marshalled the midfield with poise and guided Nsingizini to their historic victory.
Rising Star: Quality Dlamini
While ‘Yeki’s star shone brightest, another name that captured the imagination of fans was Quality Dlamini. Making his first appearance for Nsingizini Hotspurs after being signed from Sisonkhe, the young attacking gem introduced himself to the big stage in spectacular fashion.
His curling free-kick in the final not only sealed victory over the Correctional Services side but also left the crowd in awe. With every touch of the ball, Quality oozed confidence, flair, and fearlessness, earning standing ovations from supporters who could not stop chanting his name after the final match.
Together, ‘Yeki’ and Quality became the heartbeat of a Hotspurs side that defied the odds and conquered one of the nation’s most competitive tournaments.
Yeki Reacts
Khumalo said he was happy to win the award:
“What is more important is that we have won the Trade Fair Cup. I want to thank the president, the technical bench, teammates and fans for the support. I am happy and promise to continue working hard.”
He emphasised that it was through collective effort that they secured the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup.
Other Winners
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Mnotfo Dlamini (Hotspurs) – Best PRO
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Sibisiso ‘Baraba’ Dlamini (Nsingizini Hotspurs) – Best Goalkeeper
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Bongani Mhlongo (Green Mamba) – Best Coach
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Muzi Tsabedze (Sea Birds) – Top Goal Scorer (3 goals)
This year’s Trade Fair Cup will be remembered for one thing above all: Yekisizwe Khumalo proving once again that class is permanent, and Quality Dlamini showing that the future is already here.
🏆 Prizes Breakdown
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Champions: Nsingizini Hotspurs – E630 000
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Runners-up: Green Mamba – E320 000
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Third place: Manzini Sea Birds – E90 000
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Fourth place: Ubombo Sugar – E35 000
Individual Awards:
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Player of the Series: Sizwe ‘Yeki’ Khumalo – E10 000
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Top Goal Scorer: Muzi Tsabedze – E7 000
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Best Goalkeeper: Sibusiso ‘Bharaba’ Dlamini – E7 000
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Best Coach: Bongani Mhlongo – E7 000
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Best PRO: Mnotfo Dlamini – E5 000
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Print Media: Eswatini Observer – E3 500
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Electronic TV: Eswatini TV – E3 500
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Electronic Radio: EBIS – E3 500
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Digital Media: Eswatini SoccerMag – E3 500
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