By Motshwari Mofokeng
ULUNDI, KwaZulu-Natal – Nsingizini Hotspurs of Eswatini were crowned champions of the 2026 Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Legacy Cup after edging hosts Ulundi United 5-4 on penalties following a thrilling 1-1 draw in the final at the Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Regional Stadium on Saturday.
The closely contested final celebrated football, unity and the enduring legacy of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. With neither side able to break the deadlock in regulation time, the match went straight to a penalty shootout, where the Eswatini champions held their nerve to claim the prestigious title for the first time.
Earlier in the tournament, Nsingizini Hotspurs booked their place in the final by defeating fellow Eswatini club Mbabane Highlanders in a penalty shootout. Hosts Ulundi United produced one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by eliminating Betway Premiership side AmaZulu FC with a convincing 2-0 victory in the semi-finals.Speaking at the closing ceremony, Zululand District Municipality Mayor Councillor Michael Khumalo thanked the Buthelezi family for allowing the municipality to honour the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi through the annual tournament.
He said the competition would continue to expand by welcoming clubs from across South Africa and neighbouring countries while promoting youth development, regional cooperation and unity.Winning coach Mandla Qogi praised the standard of the tournament, saying it provided valuable preparation as Nsingizini Hotspurs prepare to defend three domestic trophies in Eswatini this season.The annual tournament once again highlighted football’s power to unite communities while celebrating the lasting legacy of one of South Africa’s most respected leaders.
email: motshwari@onenews.co.za
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