Local football commentators have expressed confidence in the Brave Warriors’ chances of reaching the final of this year’s Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (Cosafa) Cup after the groups were revealed on Friday.
Namibia finds itself in Group C alongside Comoros, Angola and Seychelles. The Brave Warriors fell short in last year’s semi-finals.
This year’s tournament will be held in Durban, South Africa from 25 June to 7 July.
Reacting to the draw, former Brave Warriors' captain Congo Hindjou expressed his delight as he views the group as manageable, with Angola being the only team requiring extra caution.
“It’s a good group; there are no real tough opponents. Angola might be a slight concern, but historically, they don’t field their strongest lineup for Cosafa. Reaching the semis or final is a realistic target in my opinion,” he said.
Hindjou lauded coach Collin Benjamin’s efforts in integrating new players, and praised the team’s renewed spirit.
“Collin has injected a fresh energy into the squad,” he stated. “While some may question his decisions, recent performances demonstrate progress. I believe this group has the potential to reach the final.”
Adding his two cents to the conversation, football analyst and former sports journalist Carlos Kambaekwa echoed Hindjou’s confidence as he expressed faith in the team’s ability, and
highlighted the talent and hunger of the new players.
“The group draw looks promising,” he said. “I’m confident we’ll advance to the next round. This young squad is
brimming with talent and desire. Angola, with their historical advantage against us, might pose a challenge, but once we overcome that hurdle, the final seems achievable,” he said.
Another commentator, Julien Garises, acknowledged the group’s competitiveness, but remains optimistic, saying Namibia’s recent performances position them well for a strong showing.
“Island nations have made significant strides in football lately. However, with the current squad, I’m confident they’ll go far in this year’s tournament,” she said.
Football analyst Jovita Kandjumbwa aligns with Garises’ sentiments, highlighting Namibia’s recent impressive performances.
“It’s a fair group,” she said, “and I believe we have the potential to advance. Our games against Liberia and Tunisia showcased our capabilities. We need to be cautious against Angola; historically a tough opponent for us. But the new players have proven their worth, and can rise to the challenge,” she added.
- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na