Namibian international Aprocius Petrus has officially completed a move to Sudanese champions Al Hilal, leaving South African side Cape Town City following their unexpected relegation.
The 26-year-old defender has signed a four-year contract with the Khartoum-based giants, marking a new chapter in his professional career.
“Thank you for everything. I am leaving with a full heart filled with love and pride for the club Cape Town City. Though the jersey may come off, the memories and bonds we’ve created will last a lifetime,” Petrus said in a heartfelt message to the club and its supporters.
The versatile player, who featured primarily as a left-back for the Namibian national team but also operated at centre-back and in central midfield for City, joined the Cape Town outfit after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Before that, he played in Kosovo.
During his stint with the Citizens, he made 35 appearances in all competitions over one and a half seasons.
Cape Town City’s relegation at the end of the 2024/25 campaign prompted the club to offload several players, with Petrus being one of the most notable departures.
His new club, Al Hilal, recently returned to domestic football after a two-year hiatus due to the ongoing civil war in Sudan.
Despite the conflict, Al Hilal triumphed in a condensed eight-team mini-tournament held in Ad-Damer and Atbara, cities located hundreds of kilometres from the war-ravaged capital, Khartoum.
Their victory secured yet another berth in the CAF Champions League, marking their 22nd consecutive appearance.
Though they have reached the group stages 13 times, the Sudanese giants are still in search of their maiden title, having most recently fallen to Al Ahly in the quarterfinals.
Last season, while in exile in Mauritania, Al Hilal made headlines by winning the local league as guest participants.
The club is now rebuilding its squad, aiming to restore its dominance in continental football amid an uncertain future regarding a full return to Khartoum.
Meanwhile, questions remain around the future of Petrus’ Namibian teammate Prins Tjiueza, who is still with Cape Town City.
The club has yet to make an announcement regarding his status.
Other moves
Rewaldo Prins has parted ways with South African side Marumo Gallants after a challenging season that saw him feature just five times across all competitions. Ngero Katua, a defensive midfielder, has joined South Africa’s first-division club Highbury, where he links up with fellow Namibian Ndisiro Kamaijanda.
Kennedy Eib has also signed with Highbury on a free transfer, further strengthening their Namibian contingent.
In Botswana, Sisqo Haraseb has inked a deal with Mochudi Centre Chiefs, while Alfeus Leevi has joined league rivals Jwaneng Galaxy.
-Additional information SuperSport