MAPUTO – Namibia’s Under-20 football team fashioned out the all-important away goal against Mozambique despite losing 2-1 in their 2015 CAF African Youth Championship first leg qualifier in Maputo on Saturday.
“It was a great game of football while it was also very pleasing to see such kind of football at Under-20 level. But for us, it was against very physical and experienced opponents, 70 percent of whom play in the Mozambique Premier League and it was evident in their play but our players held their own very well,” said NFA Technical Director Klaus Staerke. The Young Mambas took the lead before Rundu Chiefs striker Uaseuako Katjiukua netted the equalizer for a 1-all halftime score. In the 2nd half, the hosts netted their 2nd goal which proved to be the winner but Staerke believes his Baby Warriors responded well and could have been on level terms at the death. “I am humbly surprised by the performance of the team, the boys really gave their all and an equaliser was possible as they hit the post in the last minute but in the end, the Mozambican side was at home and were favourites and they got the victory.” Hendry Duwe of Swakopmund FC hit the post in the closing stages of the match.
“We will be at home on the 26th of this month and anything is possible in football. Mozambique are favourites but our team showed that they can play and with the experience from the first leg, they can only get better and motivated by such a spledid showing away from home. It’s certainly not over yet.”
By Staff Reporter