Namibia’s Brave Gladiators suffered a 4-2 defeat against Zambia’s Copper Queens in the first leg of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier, played on Wednesday afternoon in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The result puts Namibia in a challenging position heading into the return leg, which will take place on Sunday in Zambia. To keep their qualification hopes alive, the Gladiators will need to score at least three goals without conceding any, a difficult but not impossible task.
Despite the setback, the match offered valuable lessons and exposure for Namibia’s young and rising football talents, particularly 16-year-old forward Nancy Lebang.
Lebang’s inclusion in the senior squad marks a significant step in her blossoming career. She first made headlines during the 2025 Cosafa U/17 Girls Championship, where she dominated the tournament and scored an incredible seven goals in a single match against Comoros.
Her discovery story is just as inspiring. Risto Shikomba, who unearthed her talent at Havana Primary School, recalled the moment he realised she was special. “She was an outstanding athlete even then, technically sharp, disciplined, and focused. I quickly drafted her to train with the U/13 boys because she needed a challenge. Even though they were older and stronger, she adapted and thrived,” he said.
Shikomba went on to explain that Lebang’s exposure to playing with boys in the HopSol League for the U/13 and U/15 teams helped shape her mental strength and technical abilities. “That experience really built her character and made her the player she is today. She’s quiet, humble and incredibly disciplined.
Former Brave Gladiators head coach Woody Jacobs echoed these sentiments, expressing immense pride in Lebang and other emerging players from Namibia’s youth structures. “Lebang represents the future of women’s football in Namibia. She, along with a few others from the U/17 and U/20 teams, has tremendous potential. What’s important now is that they continue to be nurtured and exposed to top-level competition,” he said.
Lebang, who hails from the Omaheke region, is a Grade 10 learner and has had to balance her education with her football career. Speaking about her rapid rise, the teenager said she is both grateful and motivated. “I am full of joy and pride to be part of the senior team. My journey has been amazing, from captaining the U/17 and U/20 teams to now representing Namibia at a senior level. I am committed to working hard and showcasing my talent,” she said.
The young forward expressed appreciation for the support she has received from both coach Jacobs and current coach Lucky Kakuva, who have given her opportunities to play at the highest level. “I am thankful for the chance to represent my country. After WAFCON, I’ll go back to school to write my examination, but for now, my focus is on giving my best on the pitch,” she added.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na