Eswatini football team faces E1 million travel bill for Malta match
Sihlangu Semnikati will make history on November 12, 2026, playing their first international friendly against a European nation.
Eswatini's senior men's national football team, Sihlangu Semnikati, faces an estimated travel bill exceeding E1 million for their upcoming friendly match against Malta. The team is scheduled to play the European side on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Ta’ Qali National Stadium. Round-trip flights for a delegation of 30 individuals are projected to cost over E1 million.
Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Marketing and Communications Officer Muzi ‘Rhoo’ Radebe confirmed a signed agreement between the associations but declined to share specific details, stating that logistics will be guided by the contract. Typically, the visiting national association covers its own international airfare and transit costs, while the host nation provides accommodation, meals, and ground transport.
This fixture marks the first time Eswatini will play an international friendly match against a European nation. The match is crucial preparation for Malta, currently ranked 160th in FIFA, ahead of their UEFA Nations League clash against Gibraltar on November 16. Malta leads their group with seven points from three matches and is on a four-match unbeaten streak.
Why it mattersThe national football team's travel expenses will cost over E1 million.