Angry Fans Storm Pitch, Assault Referees in Eswatini Cup Match
T.E (Elbotola)
22 February 2026at20:40
A match in the Eswatini Cup Round of 16 descended into widespread chaos, as dozens of fans stormed the pitch and assaulted the referees immediately after the final whistle. The attacks resulted in serious injuries during the clash between Hotspurs and Mbabane Highlanders.
The unrest on the field followed Hotspurs' victory over Mbabane Highlanders, secured by a goal scored in stoppage time. This late winner ignited the fury of Mbabane supporters, prompting their violent confrontation with the officials.
Frustrated Highlanders fans alleged that the referee intentionally added three minutes of extra time, allowing Hotspurs the opportunity to score the decisive goal.
Q&A
Why did Mbabane Highlanders fans storm the pitch during the Eswatini Cup?
Mbabane Highlanders fans stormed the pitch, assaulting referees after Hotspurs' stoppage-time winner in the Eswatini Cup. Supporters alleged the referee unfairly added three minutes of extra time, leading to the decisive goal.
What was the outcome of the Eswatini Cup match between Hotspurs and Mbabane Highlanders?
Hotspurs secured a victory over Mbabane Highlanders in the Eswatini Cup Round of 16, scoring a decisive goal in stoppage time. This late winner, however, immediately led to widespread chaos and assaults on the referees.