Richard Nkosi

Richard Nkosi

Ephraim "Shakes" Mashaba will on Tuesday be announced as the head coach of iSihlangu Semnikati, the Swaziland national soccer squad.

Though the National Football Association of Swaziland (NFAS) declined to confirm this, Sowetan has gathered that the former Orlando Pirates manager will take over the post following his successive record with the Swazi team.

Mashaba is reported to have agreed on a two-year contract with the NFAS.

In the three games that he has been in charge of the Swazi team, the former Bafana Bafana coach has won one game, lost one and drew one.

These results put iSihlangu on top of their Group 4 World Cup/Afcon qualifiers ahead of Zambia and Togo.

Bomber Mthethwa, NFAS president said:" We will hire a coach that we and the nation believe in. The decision has already been made but we will officially make the announcement on Tuesday,"

Mashaba had been roped in on a two-month contract with iSihlangu as a caretaker coach.

Khoza, quoted by Swaziland media, said the NFAS could discuss a long term contract with Mashaba.

Kenny Ndlazi could also not be a surprise choice if appointed.

Two weeks ago when iSihlangu defeated Togo 1-0 at Somhlolo Stadium, Ndlazi was a keen spectator after being invited by the NFAS and Mashaba.

Mashaba and Ndlazi are known for guiding the South Africa Under-23 national team to the Sydney Olympics in 2000 where they made history by beating Brazil.

Both coaches could not be reached for comment.