Hesron Kapanga
The national men’s U/17 football head coach Pauhl ‘Shakes’ Mallembu said competing at the International Schools Sport Federation (ISF) Football World Cup is an unmatched experience for the young footballers.
The Namibia School Sports Union (NSSU) sent a U/17 football team to Dalian, China, to compete in the ISF Football World Cup, taking place from 16 to 27 May.
Since the cup kicked off last week Thursday, the Namibian boys played two matches, losing one and winning another.
Their first match was against the host nation, which they lost 0-2.
In their second match on Monday against Serbia, the Namibian team managed to secure a 1-0 win.
In an interview with Nampa on yesterday, Mallembu said their opening match of the competition was tough but a good learning experience.
“We conceded two clear goals due to individual errors and lack of concentration. We recovered quite well in the second half, but it was too late to get back in the game. Nevertheless, the boys tried their best,” he said.
He added their second match on Monday was an improved game, which he hopes will motivate the boys in their remaining game, scheduled for Tuesday.
“We managed to win against Serbia 1-0. It was a tough match against one of the best European giants. The boys played well, and they deserved the win,” he said.
Mallembu further revealed two of his players will miss their fixture against Morocco after sustaining serious injuries and expressed hope that they respond well to treatment. -Nampa