OPUWO – The North-East First Division Football League, under the auspices of the Namibia Football Association, is set to resume this weekend following a four-week break for the festive season.
Match weeks four and five will take place tomorrow and Sunday across four venues, featuring 12 matches as teams prepare for intense fixtures in their quest for promotion to the Premier League next season.
Daniel Namwira, the league administrator, told Nampa on Wednesday that all arrangements are in place for the league’s return, with 12 teams eager for another thrilling football season.
“The league administration is fully-prepared for the weekend. With crucial points at stake, the resumption promises exhilarating action as teams aim to make a strong head-start while vying for promotion to the top league,” he stated.
Namwira emphasised the importance of home teams ensuring their stadiums and venues are ready for the matches. Despite the excitement surrounding the league’s return, he acknowledged that some teams are still facing financial challenges, stressing the need for additional support for those in need.
“Whilewearereadytokickoff, several teams are still grappling with financial difficulties. However, everything is set, and the league will proceed this weekend,” he added.
Tomorrow’s round four matches will see Eastern Chiefs hosting Ntunguru at the Bagani Sports Field, while Kangweru Black Tops face Kulisika Palace at Katima Mulilo.
Last season’s contenders, Oshikango Chiefs, will travel to Nkurenkuru to face current league leaders KK United, rekindling a fierce rivalry from last season.
Kulisika Palace will host Chief Santos at the Nkurenkuru Stadium, with the latter looking to bounce back from a disappointing previous season.
The Ponhofi Stadium in the Ohangwena region will feature Further Fighters against Shooting Stars, with the highlight of tomorrow being the clash between Ohangwena NamPol and Rundu Chiefs.
On Sunday, Eastern Chiefs will face Kangweru Black Tops, while the bottom team, Shooting Stars, will battle Ntunguru in search of their first win.
KK United will take on Chief Santos in a fierce fight for supremacy. Ohangwena NamPol will host United Stars, followed by Further Fighters facing Rundu Chiefs at Ponhofi Sports Field, while the struggling Kulisika Palace prepare to meet Oshikango Chiefs in Nkurenkuru. -Nampa