By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE: The INSTACASH Hhohho FA Cup tournaments kicked off on a high note, with the first three(3) of fourteen(14) scheduled tournaments in the Hhohho region taking place in both the southern and northern parts of the region. 

These tournaments are being co-sponsored by INSTACASH, the Eswatini's latest mobile money operator and eBet, one of the leading sports betting companies.

 But on Saturday, two(2) tournaments played concurrently, one in Mhlangatane in Northern Hhohho, the other was at Maphalaleni in Southern Hhohho at Emahejini and Mjopane Sports Grounds respectively.

 Makhweya Young Stars emerged victorious as champions in Mhlangatane after defeating Lonhlalane Young Stars 5-4 in a penalty shootout. 

Makhweya secured their spot in the final by defeating Madelezini Hot Fighters 1-0 in the semifinals. Lonhlalane advanced to the finals after Thuluzobona FC was disqualified due to non-compliance with tournament rules.

 Love & Peace F.C. clinched the Maphalaleni championship by triumphing over Rangers with a commanding 3-0 victory in the finals.

Love & Peace displayed their prowess earlier by defeating Maphalaleni Green Pastures 5-1. Rangers secured their spot in the finals by edging out Rollers United 1-0 in the semifinals.

The third tournament was played in Nkhaba (Southern Hhohho) at Majotini Sports Grounds this past Sunday.

Submarine F.C. emerged as the winners by securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Motshane Very Good FC in the finals. In the semifinals, Submarine overcame Majotini Rebels in a thrilling penalty shootout, winning 5-4. Meanwhile, Motshane Very Good FC advanced to the finals by defeating Atletico 4-3.

All three champions this weekend went home with E2,500 prize money in cash, full soccer kits worth E5,000 each, a trophy, and gold medals for keeps. 

First runners up pocketed E2,500 cash and silver medals. Semifinalists each got E1,000; while top goal scorer and player of the tournament shared E500 equally.

“The tournaments not only showcased the talent and competitiveness of the teams but also brought communities together to celebrate the spirit of football,said INSTACASH Managing Director Mandla ‘Cheeks’ Nxumalo.

Hhohho Regional FA Vice Chairman Donald Nkonyane said with the support of INSTACASH and eBet, these tournaments are set to continue providing exciting football action and opportunities for local teams to showcase their skills and compete for glory. 

As the remaining tournaments in the Hhohho region unfold, football enthusiasts can look forward to more thrilling matches and exciting moments as teams battle it out on the field for a chance to be crowned champions.