Hesron Kapanga
KORHOGO – Brave Warriors’ coach Collin Benjamin says his players are more dedicated to leaving a legacy and will go to all lengths to represent their country with pride while donning the senior national team jersey.
He said this on Saturday during a pre-match media conference organised by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Korhogo.
Benjamin told the media that his players spent Christmas on a soccer pitch, which shows determination and putting in the work. Therefore, whatever comes, positive or negative, the next person should say they did what they had to do.
“There is not much that I can tell these players. They have put in the work, and you can’t be training on Christmas to go play in the toilet or social games. These players have put in the work, and there is a hunger in them. All they must do now is follow their dreams and the instructions given to them,” he said.
Football, he added, is a performance sport, and the reason it’s played is for players to show Africa or the world their skills and talent on that big stage.
“There is pressure for the boys to do well, but I am even afraid of them. Their determination and hunger show they want to achieve better. These players are working as one unit, which is good to see,” he observed.
The coach further stated that despite Namibia winning their opening African Cup of Nations match against Tunisia on Wednesday, people shouldn’t be greedy with results, but instead let the players do what they can when on the field of play.
“We had a few knocks after the first game, but the medical team did their best, and we will be having a full squad again at our disposal.
Benjamin added that what matters now is for the players to just think about themselves, and not what people are saying.
Speaking at the same occasion, Brave Warriors’ midfielder Petrus Shitembi said the win against Tunisia was historic, but that is behind them now.
“We have the right team and in the right places with our technical team, who knows what is best for us. Credit should be given to the boys who are in top shape at this competition,” he added.
– Nampa