The head coach of the Kunene region U/20 football team, Simon Petrus !Haradoeb announced a provisional squad on Friday ahead of the upcoming Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup.

This year’s edition of the Newspaper Cup runs from 3 to 5 April in Keetmanshoop in the //Kharas region and defending champions Kunene are gearing up to retain the title they won last year on their home ground, Outjo.

The announcement has sparked excitement among fans as the region gears up for the national youth tournament.

In a strategic move to balance youthful energy with experience, !Haradoeb recalled five veteran players to provide leadership both on and off the field.

“We have a talented group of youngsters, but the Newspaper Cup is a high-pressure environment. Bringing back these experienced heads gives us the spine and grit we need to compete at the highest level. The boys are hungry, and Kunene is ready,” he boasted.

The returning veterans include Christiano Garvelho Useb, Marcelinio Gift Smith, Mauricio Given Smith, Tani-Tani Richardt Ricky Orr and goalkeeper Mcheni Honesly Hero Kavendjii.

The provisional squad also includes emerging talents from regional academies and clubs, such as Henrico Unomuinjo Kavendjii, Ismael Dixon Donaldson Howoseb, Jeremia Gan-Gan Gurirab, Jossy Mbendura, and Moritz Carlton Ross Nus. Players hail from the Outjo Football Academy, Kasaona Football Academy, Pubs FC, and Mondesa FC, creating a blend of raw potential and proven skill.

Kunene will rely on teamwork, discipline, and veteran leadership to defend its championship, he said, while calling on fans to rally behind the defending champions as preparations intensify. – Nampa