After not being played for a year, the Pstbet Namibia Football Association (NFA) Cup will make a welcome return this weekend, with several exciting fixtures lined up for Sunday at two venues across the nation.
The cup was last played in 2021 and was won by Civics, who edged Mighty Gunners 3-2 in the final to clinch the coveted title.
This weekend, one of the most entertaining domestic cup tournaments marks its return, with at least 15 matches scheduled at two stadiums.
The matches will be played at Omulunga Stadium in Grootfontein and at Windhoek’s Independence Stadium.
Ronnie Kanalelo, the head coach of African Stars, said he is ready for the weekend encounter. He added that preparations had gone well this week, and they hope to start the tournament on a high note.
“I don’t know much about our opponents, but I personally know the coach. He was involved with the national team at junior level. But we don’t underestimate them, we respect every team we play against,” he said.
“It's going to be a match like any other fixture, and we must remain ready, and that’s what we have been doing this week. I think and believe we as a team, rested well after celebrating winning the league, and we now turn our focus to the FA Cup,” he said.
“It’s always tough playing in a domestic cup such as the NFA Cup, and so much is at stake. But as a team, you must be prepared, and that’s what we have done. We are looking to start the campaign off well, winning our first match against our opponents, although we know it won’t be a walk in the park,” he said.
Action will start at 10h00 on Sunday at Independence Stadium. Youngster will square off in the first match against Okahandja United, followed by a tie between Julinho Sporting and Friends FC, slated for 12h00.
At 14h00, Hamutumbangela will face Young Brazilian in another exciting tie. Meanwhile, Khomas Nampol will take to the field against Swallows, while Khaiseb will get an acid test against Debmarine Premiership reigning champions Stars in the last match of the day starting at 18h00.
At Omulunga Stadium, Ongos FC will take on African United, in a match expected to start at 10h00, while Young African will take on Golden Bigs at 12h00.
The last match of the day will pit Unam Ogongo against Tigers at 14h00.
- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na