Wartburg Sports Academy Fall To Ompetha Bomhlaba FC In Friendly

Wartburg Sports Academy faced Ompetha Bomhlaba FC in a friendly match at the Newton Pre-Vocational School on 17 May 2025, with the final score reading 2-4 in favour of the visitors. The match kicked off at 10:00 am, and despite a spirited performance from Wartburg, they were unable to secure a victory.

Wartburg lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, designed to bolster their midfield presence while allowing for a lone striker to lead the attack. Aphiwe took his position in goal, with a back four comprising Philani-Q Dlamini on the right, Khanyisani Mshibe and Mluleki-Boxer Thusi as central defenders, and Walter-Phe Mchunu on the left. The midfield was packed with Lulama Zondi on the right, Sanele Dlamini, Phumlani-Nkunzi Hlatshwayo, and Banele-Timm Hlophe in central roles, while Memfi operated on the left. Manono Mkhathini was the sole striker, tasked with converting chances into goals.

The substitutes for Wartburg included Mhlwehlwe, who would later be introduced into the match.

The match began with an explosive start as Sanele Dlamini found the back of the net just one minute in, giving Wartburg an early lead. The home side's joy was short-lived, however, as Ompetha Bomhlaba FC equalised in the 24th minute, demonstrating their attacking prowess and resilience.

As the first half drew to a close, Wartburg regained some momentum when Khanyisani Mshibe converted a penalty in the 45th minute, sending the teams into the break with Wartburg leading 2-1. The home side had shown promise, but the second half would prove to be a different challenge.

Ompetha Bomhlaba FC came out strong after the interval, and their efforts paid off in the 60th minute when they scored their second goal, bringing the match level once again. Wartburg's tactical adjustments were put to the test as they sought to regain control of the game.

In the 70th minute, a tactical substitution was made as Lulama Zondi was replaced by Mhlwehlwe, aiming to inject fresh energy into the midfield. Despite these changes, Ompetha continued to dominate, scoring their third goal in the 92nd minute, which put them ahead 3-2.

As the match progressed into extra time, Ompetha Bomhlaba FC sealed their victory with a fourth goal in the 116th minute, leaving Wartburg Sports Academy with a disappointing defeat. The final whistle confirmed a 4-2 loss for Wartburg, highlighting the need for improvement as they prepare for future fixtures.