Coaches in the FNB Women’s Super League (WSL) have welcomed the return of the top-flight competition, but admit that the temporary suspension of matches had disrupted their teams’ momentum.
The league, which was put on hold following the death of Namibia’s Founding President Sam Nujoma, will resume from 7 to 9 March, fixtures released this week show.
While the break gave teams time to rest and reorganise, some coaches believe it negatively affected players’ fitness and match rhythm.
Ongos Ladies’ head coach Shama Gure expressed relief at the league’s return, but acknowledged the challenge of regaining lost momentum.
“The release of the fixtures is always exciting, and this upcoming match against Beauties is particularly important for us. It’s a chance to assess our progress, refine our strategies and most importantly, regain our competitive rhythm after a period of uncertainty. Every game matters, and we approach this one with complete focus and determination,” he noted.
“The lack of competitive matches affected momentum, and maintaining peak fitness was a challenge. However, we used this time to regroup, analyse past performances, and refine areas needing improvement. In some ways, the break helped us reset and come back stronger,” Gure said.
Ongos Ladies had several players called up for Namibia’s Brave Gladiators in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations’ (WAFCON) qualifier against Eswatini. The coach believes this experience will benefit his squad. “Having players competing internationally is both a challenge and an advantage. On one hand, match fitness remains high, but on the other, managing fatigue and recovery is crucial. We have a solid plan in place to smoothly reintegrate them into the squad while balancing their workload,” he added.
Okahandja FC head coach Kennedy Malgas echoed similar sentiments.
“The cancellation had both positive and negative effects. On one hand, we had enough time to go back to the drawing board, but on the other, it affected our momentum”.
For a team like Okahandja FC, which has several out-of-town players, the break posed additional challenges. “Since we had to release some players after the announcement, we now have to track them down before match weekend. I’m sure most of them will return next week, but we have work to do to ensure they are ready”, he observed.
Regarding preparation, Malgas said the team continued training with the available players while encouraging individual training for those away.
Full fixtures
7 March 2025
Beauties vs Ongos Ladies FC
8 March 2025
African Stars Queens vs Windhoek City
Unam Bokkies vs Namib Daughters
Julinho Athletics vs V-Power Angels
Arrows Ladies vs Okahandja FC
-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na