FC Ongos head coach Ronnie Kanalelo said his side is fully prepared for a demanding weekend as the Namibia Premier League enters a crucial phase. 

With two contrasting opponents on the horizon, Kanalelo emphasised the need for tactical discipline and adaptability.

“We are facing two types of opposition.  Khomas Nampol employs a long-ball strategy designed to breach our defensive line, whether through second balls or swift counterattacks. African Stars, on the other hand, are a team that builds from the back. They look to progress through the phases or switch play with diagonal balls to the wings, where they thrive on one-on-one situations and overloads,” explained Kanalelo.

He shared that FC Ongos’ approach for the weekend will be rooted in their defensive organisation and transitions.  “My strategy for these two matches lies within the principles of defending and defensive transitions in our game model. We need to manage the different dynamics each team presents and remain compact, disciplined, and intelligent in our decision-making,” he said.

Meanwhile, in Gobabis, Young African head coach Marley Ngarizemo expects an equally tough set of fixtures. His side will face a confident Mighty Gunners outfit and an improving Life Fighters team.

“It won’t be easy at all. These are not easy teams, especially considering Mighty Gunners’ form and the number of goals they are scoring. Life Fighters also picked up an important point in Rundu. We will go there and give our all to collect good points,” Ngarizemo said.  He added that matches against Mighty Gunners rarely come easy. “It has never been easy with Gunners; it will be a game to watch. It must be a game decided by the players, not the officials. We are ready. With our South African players back, the mood in camp has changed significantly. It’s positive, and we hope to carry this energy into the weekend to get maximum points,” he added.

As the league table stands, Mighty Gunners lead the pack with 21 points from 11 matches, edging African Stars also on 21 points on goal difference. Gunners boast a goal difference of 10, while Stars sit on seven. Unam follow closely in third with 19 points, while Eeshoke Chula Chula are just behind them on 18 points from 11 matches.

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na