As the highly anticipated MTC Maris Cup semifinals approach this Saturday in Mariental, the tension is palpable as four determined coaches spoke candidly about their aspirations for the coveted N$1.5 million prize.
Bucks Buccaneers’ Woody Jacobs, African Stars’ Benedictus ‘Bennie’ Haoseb, Unam FC’s Robert Nauseb and Young Africans’ Maleagi Ngarizemo spoke to New Era Sports yesterday.
Jacobs of Bucks Buccaneers expressed optimism despite being the underdogs.
“To be honest, I think our team deserves to be here. Even though not many give us a chance against a strong side like Stars, we believe in ourselves and our ability to lift the trophy. Yes, Stars have a strong history, having bagged numerous league titles and cups in recent years, but we are ready to challenge them with everything we’ve got,” he said.
Jacobs made it clear that the Buccaneers would not go down without a fight. “We are going all in for this one,” he added, referring to the semifinal showdown. “The pressure is on, but we are motivated.”
Stars prepared for a fight
Stars Haoseb, acknowledged the tough road his team has had to navigate, having faced fierce competitors like Blue Waters and Mighty Gunners. “When money is on the line, emotions run high. But we are excited to face a team like Bucks Buccaneers, who will come at us with everything,” Haoseb noted.
He also spoke of the emotional dynamic of facing his former instructor, stating, “It will be a student versus teacher situation, but we are fully prepared for the challenge.”
Haoseb highlighted the importance of experienced players like Willy Stephanus and Ronald Katjijere, who have performed at the highest level and know what is at stake.
“The team is in good spirits and the return of Youssef Ibrahim from Comoros adds a boost to our chances. It will be a tough, intense match, but we’re ready to give our best.”
Unam focused and fearless
Unam FC’s coach, Nauseb, shared his thoughts on the difficult journey to the semifinals, including tough matches against Chula Chula and Blue Waters. “The semifinal against Young African will be a different challenge, but we are fully prepared. We’ve worked hard over the last two weeks and the team is in good shape. We have a few injuries, but it is nothing that will keep us from executing our game plan.”
He also emphasised that they are prepared for every scenario, including the possibility of penalties. “Football is a game of two halves and if things don’t go as planned, we’ll adapt in the second half. We’re ready for anything.”
African running on a high
For Ngarizemo, the semifinal match against Unam FC is vital. “This is an important match, with a chance to reach the final. We’ve been preparing for Unam for three weeks, and while they’ve been playing solid football, we’ve had a good record against them in the Debmarine Premier League,” Ngarizemo said.
However, he was quick to acknowledge the unique nature of cup competitions. “This is a different ball game.
We’ve had some changes and I’ve brought in new players, including some from South Africa and Cameroon.
Fitness is a concern, but we’ve been playing friendlies to get the team in sync.”
Ngarizemo summed up the match’s importance, saying, “In the end, it will come down to who wants it more.
The team that’s hungrier will come out on top.”
The first semifinal kicks off at 14h00, with the second one set to follow at 17h00 at the Mariental Stadium.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na