The reigning champions of the Africa Cup, Namibia, will face Zimbabwe in the semi-final match at 15h00 at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda. 

Namibia comes from a commanding 38-5 defeat of Burkina Faso on Saturday, and are looking to secure another victory against Zimbabwe. 

Zimbabwe, however, are not to be underestimated as they narrowly beat host Uganda 22-20 to reach the semi-final.

Namibia’s head coach Allister Coetzee expressed his satisfaction with the team’s preparation. “I am pleased and satisfied with the training the players went through. They understand the importance of the semifinal,” he said. 

Reflecting on their previous match, he added, “We were not as sharp in the match against Burkina Faso. We were flat and sluggish; we didn’t take proper care of the ball.”

Addressing the challenges faced, Coetzee noted, “It’s a matter of adjusting and adapting to conditions. The ball becomes slippery, but we trained well, and have addressed these issues. 

“We are looking forward to the clash; Zimbabwe is a good side. They have experienced players, a strong set-piece, scrum and line-out. Our approach is to win the collisions, and be as physical as possible. We planned well, and have come through the Burkina match without any injuries. Only two players have influenza, but they should be okay for today’s encounter,” he said.

The tournament features eight rugby nations, namely host Uganda, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire, Kenya and Algeria. In other matches, Kenya, who saw off Senegal, will confront Algeria. 

In other matches today, Senegal takes on Cote d’Ivoire at 9h00, Uganda will match up with Burkina Faso at 11h00, Kenya will face Algeria at 13h00.

 The final of the Rugby Africa Cup will take place on 28 July. -lmupetami@nepc.com.na