Namibia’s long-standing Rugby World Cup pedigree came to a painful halt in Dubai last week as the Welwitschias fell short in their bid to qualify for the 2027 global showpiece. 

Consecutive defeats to Belgium and Samoa in the final qualification tournament in Dubai brought an end to the country’s proud run of seven consecutive World Cup appearances stretching back to 1999. The Welwitschias entered the four-team qualification event knowing that only the overall winner would earn the final ticket to Australia 2027. 

But their hopes were dented early when they suffered a narrow 22- 15 defeat against Belgium in their opening match. Despite a spirited effort, Namibia struggled to impose themselves at key moments, allowing the Belgians to capitalise on their opportunities, particularly through dominant forward play and well-taken points from the kicking tee. 

With everything still to play for, Namibia approached their second match against Samoa with renewed determination. But they were immediately forced onto the back foot, as the Islanders delivered a clinical and physical first-half performance. Samoa raced to a 19-0 lead through tries from Jonathan Taumateine, Va’afauese Apelu Maliko and Latrell Ah-Kiong, with fullback Jacob Umaga controlling the tempo and nailing his conversions. Namibia regrouped well after the break, showing far greater composure and intensity. A penalty from fly-half Cliven Loubser put them on the scoreboard, as the team played tactically through the boots of Loubser, Divan Rossouw and Helarius Kisting. 

Their defensive tenacity and improved physicality at the breakdown saw them force 11 turnovers, an area they had targeted following the Belgium loss. 

Samoa, however, struck a decisive blow with a well-executed maul finished by flanker Alamanda Motuga, stretching the score to 26-3. Namibia refused to fold, fighting back with a late try from Jay-Cee Nell after a clever cross-kick by Johan Deysel. The Welwitschias finished the second half 8-7 winners. 

The captain of the Welwitschias Louise van der Westhuizen said its tough out there. “We faced a quality side from Samoa. Obviously quality players. Bringing on a good bench as well,” he said. 

“It was an 80-minute fight for us. I just want to congratulate the boys and the fight they have shown. Obviously coming off a bad loss (against Belgium). This is the type of fight we want, and this is the first step to our rebuilding phase and for the next qualifier,” he said. 

“Obviously, it’s not a place that we want to be in. But you know that’s rugby track, we have to start again, and I think we can look in the mirror and say we could have had a hell of a fight,” he added. 

Namibia now bows out of the race, but will play Brazil in their final match tomorrow at 15h00. While Samoa and Belgium will battle for the final Rugby World Cup spot. -lmupetami@nepc.com.na