Zebaldt Ngaruka
Namibia’s international goalkeeper, Loydt Kazapua, has apologised to the nation for leaving the Brave Warriors team hotel in Francistown, Botswana without authorisation from team management.
The Warriors were in Francistown where they played Malawi and Sao Taome and Principe in the Fifa World Cup qualifier matches.
Kazapua’s decision to leave the hotel after the Brave Warriors defeat to Malawi forced coach Collin Benjamin to drop him and forward Issaskar Gurirab from the team.
In a statement made available to New Era Sports, Kazapua acknowledged that leaving the camp without authorisation was wrong and apologised for his action.
“I take full responsibility for this and accept the decision of the management team to release me. I have since personally apologised to the technical team and my teammates for any disruption or disappointment this may have caused,” he said.
Kazapua also extended his apology to the entire Namibian nation.
“Representing my country is one of the greatest honours of my life, and I also do not take that responsibility lightly,” he said.
The goalkeeper further rubbished rumours circulating on his expulsion from the camp that he was out drinking and clubbing, as being completely false.
“I have always lived an alcohol-free life by choice and by conviction, and that has never changed. This decision is rooted in my personal values and the discipline I upheld throughout my life and career,” said the experienced goalkeeper.
Kazapua said his brief absence from the camp was to attend to a personal errand, and not for any reason being speculated on social media or elsewhere.
“I remain committed to serving my country with pride, professionalism and integrity, whenever called upon. I am focused, hungry, and ready to continue doing what I love, playing football and giving my all for Namibia,” he said.
The goalkeeper expressed appreciation to those who continue supporting, believe in him, and truly know his heart.
“Your encouragement means everything,” he said.
In addition, the goalkeeper recently penned a two-year contract with South African outfit Black Leopards, joining his countryman Bethuel Muzeu.
– zngaruka@yahoo.com