The Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) has announced a lineup of international warm-up matches in preparation for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, set to take place in Uganda from 6 to 20 July.
These fixtures are a crucial part of Namibia’s high-performance programme as the national team gears up for a run at qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
To ensure the Welwitschias are fully-prepared, Namibia will host three high-profile matches in June, offering fans the rare opportunity to experience top-tier rugby action at home.
The confirmed fixtures are as follows: on 14 June, Welwitschias will face Uganda at Walvis Bay High School.
On 21 June, the Welwitschias will play against Airlink Pumas (South Africa) at Hage Geingob Stadium.
On 27 June, the Welwitschias have a date with Italy at Hage Geingob Stadium.
Director of Rugby Jacques Burger at yesterday’s press conference said they are particularly excited about hosting Italy and Uganda, as everyone has put in the work for the match to take place. “These matches will provide crucial game time against strong international opposition.”
Burger emphasised that the warm-up series not only boosts Namibia’s chances in the upcoming Rugby Africa Cup, but also helps to strengthen the country’s pathway to the 2027 World Cup.
“We encourage all supporters, sponsors, and media to rally behind the team as this is a special moment for Namibian rugby.
We invite the entire rugby community to get behind the Welwitschias as they chase World Cup qualification,” he said.
Burger added that final tournament fixtures and kick-off times for the Rugby Africa Cup will be confirmed by Rugby Africa in due course.
In the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup, Namibia secured third place after defeating Kenya 38–27 in the bronze medal match on 28 July in Kampala, Uganda.
This victory came after a challenging tournament for the Welwitschias, who had previously dominated the competition, winning six of the last 10 editions.
Namibia’s path to the bronze medal began with a commanding 38–5 win over Burkina Faso. However, they faced a significant setback in the semifinals, where they were defeated 32–10 by Zimbabwe.
This loss marked Zimbabwe’s first victory over Namibia in 23 years. -lmupetami@nepc.com.na