ESWATINI’S YOUNG STARS GEAR UP FOR HISTORIC FIFA U15 WORLD CUP
The Eswatini Under-15 National Team is putting the final touches to its preparations for the inaugural FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026 in Azerbaijan, with the 14-member squad scheduled to depart the country on Monday.
The young Sihlangu held an open media training session at the Lobamba Technical Centre as they prepare to represent Eswatini on the global stage from 24 to 30 October 2026.
Head coach Xolani Sgudla expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress, revealing that the squad has been together for the past two months and has grown in strength, confidence and cohesion ahead of the tournament.
“Preparations have been going well. The players we started with two months ago are still training, and the team is stronger than ever. We have also been fortunate that none of the players have suffered injuries,” said Sgudla.
The coach highlighted the value of international friendly matches against Mozambique and Lesotho, explaining that the encounters exposed the young players to different styles of play and offered valuable experience in handling the demands of international football.
He noted that the matches were an important part of the team’s preparations, allowing the technical bench to assess the players and identify areas requiring improvement before the squad takes on the challenge in Azerbaijan.
Sgudla also called on Emaswati to rally behind the team, urging the nation to follow the boys’ journey and watch their matches whenever they are broadcasted.
“We are confident in the preparations we have put in, and the boys will go out there and work hard to achieve positive results. We ask the nation to support them as they carry the Eswatini flag on this important stage,” he added.
Team captain Sisekelo Shongwe shared the coach’s optimism, stressing that unity and collective commitment would be central to the squad’s performance.
“As players, we are ready for any challenge in Azerbaijan. We are not going there as individuals, but as a united team. The unity in our squad will help us achieve positive results,” said Shongwe.
Vice-captain Daniel Kaye echoed the captain’s sentiments, reaffirming the players’ determination to give their best throughout the competition. He also appealed to Emaswati to stand firmly behind the young squad as they prepare to test themselves against international opposition.
The tournament presents an important opportunity for Eswatini’s emerging football talents to gain international exposure, measure themselves against their peers from other countries and contribute to the continued development of the national game.
As the departure date approaches, the young Sihlangu remain focused on the task ahead, determined to represent Eswatini with pride, discipline and commitment on the world stage.
