Ngcobo Royals FC 2 vs 0 Young Stars FC

On 8 February 2026, Ngcobo Royals FC hosted Young Stars FC at All Saints, Ngcobo, in a league encounter that kicked off promptly at 1:00pm. The home side emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline, maintaining a clean sheet and securing all three points in this 11-a-side contest refereed by Awonke.

Ngcobo Royals lined up in a classic 4-3-3 formation, deploying a balanced setup designed to control midfield and exploit width in attack. Ukho Mbuyazwe guarded the goal, supported by a defensive line comprising Liseiko Jobela at right back, Phiko Bango and Siyamboleka George as central defenders, and Nogutsha Kwanele on the left flank. The midfield trio featured Tofu Phelo on the right, Anele Qotyiwe centrally, and Silindokuhle Manxiwa on the left, tasked with both defensive duties and creative support. Up front, Sosulwe Tetyana operated on the right wing, Linamandla Tshila led the line as striker, and Tobani Mpaka took up the left forward role. The substitutes available were Xiki Simamkele, Avuyile Landu, Ntsindiso Nogoxo, Nkulu Qotyiwe, and Mashiyi Kamva.

The match began with an early stroke of fortune for Ngcobo Royals when, just two minutes in, Young Stars FC inadvertently gifted the hosts a goal via an own goal. This early breakthrough set the tone and allowed the Royals to settle into their rhythm with confidence.

As the game progressed, Ngcobo Royals maintained their shape and discipline, with the midfield trio working tirelessly to disrupt Young Stars’ attempts to gain foothold. Silindokuhle Manxiwa, in particular, impressed with his industrious runs and ability to link play from the left midfield position.

At the interval, Ngcobo Royals made a triple substitution to refresh their squad. Xiki Simamkele replaced Tobani Mpaka on the left forward, Avuyile Landu came on for central defender Siyamboleka George, and Ntsindiso Nogoxo took over from right forward Sosulwe Tetyana. These changes aimed to inject energy and maintain the team’s attacking impetus while shoring up the defence.

The second half saw Ngcobo Royals extend their lead in the 62nd minute when Anele Qotyiwe confidently converted a penalty with his right foot, doubling the advantage. This goal was a testament to Qotyiwe’s composure and technical ability under pressure.

Shortly after the penalty, at the 65th minute mark, Nkulu Qotyiwe was introduced in place of right midfielder Tofu Phelo, further bolstering the midfield options. Later, in the 81st minute, Mashiyi Kamva replaced the goal scorer Anele Qotyiwe, allowing the team to manage the game’s closing stages effectively.

Throughout the match, Ukho Mbuyazwe’s goalkeeping was assured, while the defensive unit, particularly Phiko Bango and the fresh Avuyile Landu, kept Young Stars FC at bay. The midfield’s control and the forward line’s threat ensured Ngcobo Royals dominated proceedings.

Silindokuhle Manxiwa was named Player of the Match for his relentless work rate, creativity, and influence on the game from the left midfield position, proving pivotal in both attack and defence.

Ngcobo Royals FC’s 2-0 victory at All Saints not only secured vital league points but also demonstrated their tactical discipline and squad depth, setting a positive tone for the matches ahead.