Mhawu United Secure Clean Sheet In Stalemate At Ntjanini

Mhawu United FC travelled to Ntjanini Sports Ground on 12 October 2025 to face Mpini Rovers FC in a league away fixture that kicked off at 1:00pm. The match ended in a goalless draw, with Mhawu United holding firm to deny their opponents any goals across the full 90 minutes plus injury time.

Deploying a 3-3-3-1 formation, Mhawu United set up with a back three of Philani Mkhatshwa on the right, Mangaliso Dlamini centrally, and Sandza Shabangu on the left, tasked with providing defensive solidity and initiating attacks from deep. In midfield, the trio of Sandziso Matse on the right, Siphelele Simelane centrally, and Philani Sikhondze on the left were expected to control the tempo and link defence to attack. Ahead of them, the attacking midfield line featured Mncobi Mkhwanazi on the right, Lindokuhle Dlamini centrally, and Sibotho Sithole on the left, charged with creating chances and supporting the lone striker, Nkosephayo Mamba, who led the line. Between the sticks stood goalkeeper Sandziso Dlamini, the last line of defence. The substitutes named were Likhwa Msibi, Mthobisi Dlamini, Bonkhe Dlamini, Bahle Masuku, and Banele Nhlabatsi.

The first half saw a tense and tactical battle with both sides probing but unable to break the deadlock. Mhawu United’s defensive trio remained composed under pressure, while the midfield worked tirelessly to disrupt Mpini Rovers’ rhythm. Despite some promising moves from the attacking midfielders, clear-cut chances were scarce as the half ended goalless at the 45-minute mark.

Shortly after the interval, Mhawu United made a triple substitution at the 55th minute, signalling a tactical shift. Likhwa Msibi replaced right attacking midfielder Mncobi Mkhwanazi, Mthobisi Dlamini came on for right midfielder Sandziso Matse, and Bonkhe Dlamini took over from central midfielder Philani Sikhondze. These changes aimed to inject fresh legs and maintain intensity in midfield and attack. The new players adapted quickly, helping to sustain pressure on Mpini Rovers’ defence.

At the 72nd minute, Bahle Masuku was introduced for attacking midfielder Lindokuhle Dlamini, adding further impetus to the forward line. Later, at 83 minutes, Banele Nhlabatsi replaced striker Nkosephayo Mamba, perhaps to bring renewed energy in the closing stages as Mhawu United sought a breakthrough.

Throughout the match, goalkeeper Sandziso Dlamini was rarely troubled, but when called upon, he demonstrated assured handling and command of his area. The defensive unit, marshalled by Mangaliso Dlamini, stood firm against Mpini Rovers’ advances, while the midfield engine room, led by Siphelele Simelane, was pivotal in both disrupting opposition play and initiating attacks. Simelane’s performance earned him the player of the match accolade for his tireless work rate and influence across the pitch.

Despite their efforts, Mhawu United were unable to convert possession and chances into goals, and Mpini Rovers also failed to find a way past the organised defence. The match concluded with a 0-0 scoreline, a result that reflected the evenly matched contest and disciplined defensive displays from both sides.

Mhawu United will take heart from their defensive resilience and midfield control as they look ahead to their next league encounter, while Mpini Rovers will rue missed opportunities in front of their home crowd of 180 spectators.