The maiden edition of the Awilo Stephanus Open football tournament will start tomorrow at the famous Khomasdal Stadium in the capital.
Following the draw on Tuesday, about 24 football teams from various parts of the country will feature in the N$ 40 000 worth competition.
One of the competition organisers, Manfred Dockies Kazondume, shared with the New Era Sports that the knockout is aimed at exposing the talent of young footballers.
“This is also a platform where players from different corners of the country assemble and create a network. Even here, players are scouted by the top league’s teams, and we have an example of Deon Hoto, Boetikie Malgas, Ronald Katjijere, Gaza Kazeurua, and Alfeus Handura, among others,” said Kazondume.
He added that Premier League players will be allowed to play in this tournament.
“We don’t have restrictions on the elite league’s players as we are in off season. This is also an opportunity for the Premier League players to test their fitness ahead of the league kickoff,” said Kazondume.
In addition to the prize money, the organiser added that there is a trophy and medals for the winning teams.
On Friday, the encounter between Opuuo Hungry Warriors and Kasaona FC will open the proceedings at Khomasdal Stadium at 18h00.

The Amajitas FC and Okovakueuva FC will follow up next in the second fixture, while NDF-TE (Military School team) will face Masacero FC in the next encounter.
The last game on Friday will be between Erongo Swallows and Island Boys.
City Pillars will play Makalani FC in the early Saturday fixture at 08h00, and this will be followed by TF Mafumhe FC (a team comprised of Zimbabwean nationals in Namibia), who will lock horns against Zula Boys FC.
In the next encounter, Deon Eleven will face M.P.S.H., whereas Jitas FC will clash against Bradas FC.
The decorated Truck Team will face Tuk Tuk FC in the following match, while Garden Boys will play Super Stars, and this will be followed by the encounter between Runs FC and Salama Boys.
The Chief Ndisiro FC from neighboring Ovitoto settlement will clash against Okauua Rovers FC from Otjinene to conclude the first round matches.
Kazondume further added that the competition winner will take home a trophy, pocket N$ 20 000 in cash, and 20 gold medals.

The runners-up will be given N$ 10 000 and 20 silver medals, while the two semifinalists will each walk away with a cash amount of N$ 5 000 for their efforts.
The Awilo Stephanus Open football tournament is expected to end on Sunday.
zngaruka@yahoo.com
Captions
Ready…Teams lineup for Awilo Stephanus Open football tournament this weekend. Photos: Contributed