NYAMBO FC HOLD THEIR NERVE TO CLAIM BUILD IT EFA U13 SITEKI CROWN

Siteki youngsters shine as football, community and talent development take centre stage

Nyambo F.C. held their nerve to emerge as the Build It EFA U13 Siteki champions after defeating Mkhutjane F.C. 4–3 on penalties following an entertaining 2–2 draw at the KaLanga Technical Centre Sports Ground on Saturday, 29 August 2026.

The dramatic penalty shootout brought the curtain down on an exciting day of youth football, with the tournament showcasing emerging talent while bringing together young players, parents, coaches and supporters in celebration of grassroots football.

The Siteki tournament was staged under the Build It EFA U13 Football Development Programme, with eight teams competing for the championship and an opportunity for talented players to stake their claim for selection into the Build It regional Pick Team.

Group A featured Mpaka Young Rangers F.C., Nyambo F.C., Moneni Academy and Blue Birds F.C., while Group B comprised Lubhuku Young Starts F.C., Mkhutjane F.C., Zamazama F.C. and Sigcaweni Wizards F.C.

The teams battled through a round-robin group stage, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The winners then secured their places in the championship final, where Nyambo and Mkhutjane produced a closely contested encounter that ultimately had to be decided from the penalty spot.

Parents and supporters turned out in numbers throughout the tournament, creating an exciting atmosphere and providing encouragement to the young footballers as they demonstrated their skills, determination and passion for the game.

For Nyambo F.C., the championship was complemented by an impressive haul of individual accolades. Wakhile Vilakati was named Best Defender, Siphesihle Hlanze received the Best Midfielder award, while Sewandile Dlamini was crowned Player of the Tournament.

Mkhutjane F.C. goalkeeper Nkosephayo Gina was recognised as the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper.

Beyond the results, the Siteki tournament reinforced the broader objectives of the Build It EFA U13 Football Development Programme. The initiative provides young players with structured opportunities to compete, develop their football abilities and gain valuable match experience while creating a pathway for the identification and development of future talent.

The programme also continues to demonstrate the important role football can play in strengthening community participation. The presence of parents, coaches, supporters and other stakeholders contributed to an environment where young players could enjoy the game while being exposed to a more organised football development structure.

The Eswatini Football Association appreciates Build It for its continued investment in youth football and its contribution towards strengthening grassroots football development in Eswatini.

The EFA also congratulates Nyambo F.C. on their Siteki championship triumph and commends all participating teams, coaches, parents, supporters and stakeholders for contributing to a successful tournament.

Attention now turns to the next stop on the Build It EFA U13 Football Development Programme, with the tournament heading to Pigg’s Peak on Saturday, 5 September 2026.

BUILD IT EFA U13 SITEKI AWARDS

• Champions: Nyambo F.C.
• Runners-up: Mkhutjane F.C.
• Player of the Tournament: Sewandile Dlamini — Nyambo F.C.
• Best Midfielder: Siphesihle Hlanze — Nyambo F.C.
• Best Defender: Wakhile Vilakati — Nyambo F.C.
• Best Goalkeeper: Nkosephayo Gina — Mkhutjane F.C.