Brave Warriors’ head coach Collin Benjamin has announced that Fabian Träger will be stepping up as his assistant coach as the team prepares for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations’ (Afcon) qualifiers. 

This move comes after the departure of Benjamin’s trusted assistant Ronnie Kanalelo, who has decided to focus on club football with African Stars.

Addressing the rumours circulating in the football corridors, Benjamin clarified that former Brave Warriors and Unam FC defender Willem ‘Dudes’ Mwedihanga would not be assuming the role of second-in-command. 

Mwedihanga is attending training sessions as an intern, gaining experience in coaching alongside other trainees, including coaches from Cuca Tops in Rundu, who have participated in training sessions in the past.

“Träger will join the camp as my assistant, as we head to camp next week,” Benjamin confirmed, putting an end to speculation regarding the coaching structure. 

Träger, who has been serving as the second assistant coach and video analyst for the team, will continue his responsibilities as the video analyst, in addition to his new coaching role. 

He is highly-qualified, holding a UEFA-A licence as well as various certificates in professional football match analysis. 

His experience includes working as a youth coach at third-tier football club 1860 Munich in Germany and as a scout for TSG Hoffenheim, adding significant value to the Warriors’ coaching staff.

Last year when asked about his experience working with Benjamin and how it had influenced his coaching style and approach to working with the team, Träger said what impressed him the most during their time of working together in Munich was his equal approach and regard towards everyone, on and off the pitch. 

“I consider that a vital trait for anyone wishing to successfully lead a group. He also does not forget where he is from, which I too, consider important, especially with a universal sport such as football. These and many more have in one way or the other influenced my approach to coaching, and adapting in multi-national team environments,” he said.

The Namibian team will depart for South Africa next week, as they intensify preparations for their crucial Afcon qualifying matches. They will face Cameroon on 7 September at 18h00, followed by a clash against against Kenya on 10 September. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na