The match between defending league champions African Stars and Otjiwarongo-based outfit Mighty Gunners promises to be the standout clash in the quarterfinals of the MTC Maris Cup.
The draw for the last eight was conducted on Sunday after the final match of the last-16 was played at the Hage Geingob Stadium.
The results revealed some exciting fixtures set to take place this coming weekend. African Stars and Mighty Gunners are currently tied on 18 points in the Debmarine Premiership, making this showdown even more enticing.
Stars advanced to the quarterfinals after defeating newcomers and coastal side Blue Boys 3-1.
Mighty Gunners secured their spot with a thrilling 10-9 penalty shootout win over Tigers, following a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
African Stars’ head coach Ronnie Kanalelo acknowledged the challenge ahead.
He stated: “A lot is at stake, and every team is fighting to be the winner. The prize money is enormous, so every team will surely give it their all.
We are equally aware of what to expect in the quarterfinals of such a tournament. We will ensure that we remain ready ahead of the match over the weekend. We know how difficult our opponents are”.
Mighty Gunners’ head coach Gebhard Hengari admitted that the tie would be tough, but expressed confidence in his team’s plan.
“Cup competition is different from the league. We expect anything to happen. We know how good a team Stars is. We will go into this match as underdogs. We’ll give them the respect they deserve, and approach the match cautiously. But we will go out there to give it our all,” he said.
In other quarterfinal ties, Ongos, who earned their spot after defeating Rundu-based outfit Cuca Tops 3-0, will take on the in-form Gobabis-based team Young African.
Unam will clash with coastal side Blue Waters in a match expected to deliver fireworks.
Northern-based and newly-promoted side KK Palace is set to face Bucks Buccaneers in what promises to be another thrilling encounter.
The MTC Maris Cup is contested exclusively by the 16 clubs of the Debmarine Premiership.
With a staggering N$1.5 million prize for the winner, the competition aims to elevate the profile of Namibian football, and incentivise clubs to give their best in pursuit of glory.
The quarterfinal matches will take place on 1 and 2 February at the Oshakati Independence Stadium.
The semifinals are scheduled for 15 and 16 February at the Mariental Sport Stadium.
The tournament will culminate in the final on 1 March at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek.
– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na