Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize’s Mbabane Highlanders AM opened their MTN Premier League campaign with a goalless draw against Green Mamba at Somhlolo National Stadium in Eswatini.
The result saw both sides share the points after a competitive opening fixture in which neither team could find the breakthrough.
Shauwn, a South African businesswoman and television personality, is the president of Mbabane Highlanders. She became involved with the Eswatini club in 2025 after being approached to take over the team, adding another chapter to her involvement in football following her association with Royal AM in South Africa.
A lively start
Highlanders created an early opportunity when Sikhumbuzo Mazibuko fired an effort wide of the post in the third minute.
Green Mamba responded almost immediately, with Nhlanhla Ngwenya coming close as his effort narrowly missed the upright.
Qiniso “Kati” Nyawo was then called into action for Highlanders, making a save to deny Machawe Dlamini, while captain Sibongakonkhe Silenge produced a timely clearance to prevent Sphiwe Cele from finding the target.
Zwelihle Phewa had another opportunity midway through the first half but could not make the most of Mazibuko’s free-kick.
Green Mamba also threatened from set pieces, with Banele “Pupu” Sikhondze taking three corners without the home side being able to convert them.
Former Green Mamba forward Bhekani Mthembu, making his Highlanders debut, headed over shortly before the interval.
Chances continue after the break
The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams creating openings but struggling to produce the decisive finish.
Three minutes after the restart, Lindokuhle Manda kept out an effort from substitute Nkosivumile Zulu. Peter “Beast” Dlamini then intervened before Manda could gather Smiso Gumede’s rebound.
Nyawo was also kept busy at the opposite end.
The Highlanders goalkeeper produced two important saves to keep out Njabulo “D4D” Ndlovu after promising combinations involving Siyabonga “Gusheshe” Zwane and Bongi Siphepho.
Despite the chances, neither side managed to break the deadlock.
Referee Wandile Mamba eventually brought the match to an end, confirming a 0-0 draw.
A new chapter for Shauwn
The league opener comes as Shauwn continues to reshape Highlanders after taking charge of the club in 2025.
Her arrival has brought a stronger South African influence to the Eswatini side, with the club recruiting several South African players and football figures. The technical structure for the 2026/27 campaign includes former Mamelodi Sundowns scout Floyd “Mourinho” Mogale as head coach and former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo in the technical setup.
The club is also chasing its first league title since 2001, making the new campaign an important one for Shauwn and the Highlanders project.
The opening-day draw means Highlanders leave their first league fixture with a point, but will have to improve in front of goal as the campaign progresses.
