Twanyanyukwa Antsino recently made headlines by officiating the Women’s African Cup of Nations final. She began refereeing in 2014 while playing for Namibia’s women’s team. Despite challenges in a male-dominated sport, she worked hard and gained confidence. Inspired by other female referees and supported by friends, Antsino encourages young girls in Namibia and Africa to follow their dreams. She hopes to referee at the FIFA World Cup and proudly represent Namibia with passion and dedication.

Can you take us through your journey in refereeing? How did you get started, and what inspired you to pursue this path?

My journey as a referee dates back to 2014-2018 during my playing days. While playing for the senior women’s national football team, the Brave Gladiators, I was inspired by a female referee from Eswatini, named Viana Antonella, who officiated a match I closely followed. That is where my love for refereeing began. Additionally, a close friend of mine, Victoria Shangula, inspired me even more to take it seriously, as she was already involved in the game and achieving great things.

What challenges did you face as a female referee coming up in Namibia, and how did you overcome them?

The only challenge I faced at the early stage of my career, especially when officiating men’s games, was hearing comments like, ‘We should only officiate women’s games; we don’t fit to officiate men’s games’. But years later, I became more comfortable handling those matches, making crucial decisions as a woman and gaining confidence in myself. With a solid understanding of the laws of the game, everything is possible.

How did it feel to be appointed to officiate the Women’s African Cup of Nations final between Nigeria and Morocco? 

It was a privilege to be chosen to handle the finals of the biggest cup on the continent. Officiating a final match in a tournament is not easy. The pressure is immense, and extra effort is required. However, with the confidence I have in myself, I knew I had to take responsibility. This was not my first final of the year in the same country with so many spectators. I had already officiated the U17 AFCON men’s final. So, when I received the appointment, I told myself, ‘Yes, I can do it’.

What lessons have you learned from officiating at such a high level, and how do you plan to apply them going forward?

The lesson I have learned is that whether you do well or not, people will always criticise or question your decisions. It is up to me to handle such situations, because every decision I make is based on specific considerations.

What do you think this achievement means for women in refereeing, especially in Namibia and Africa?

This achievement means a lot to Namibians and Africa at large, especially for the girl child, because many will surely follow the path I have walked. It is also a stepping stone for those coming up after me. One thing I can say to upcoming referees is that, in this world, everything is possible as long as you hold on to your dreams. 

Do you have ambitions of officiating at the FIFA Women’s World Cup or other major global tournaments?

I think officiating at the FIFA World Cup is every referee’s dream. I cannot wait to see myself officiating at the highest levels. For me, that is my everyday dream. The more we work hard and support each other, the more likely Namibia will be represented one day. 

What qualities do you think make a top referee, and how do you keep improving your craft?

When we talk about quality in refereeing, it does not just come overnight. It requires game time, a deep understanding of football, the ability to read the game, manage players, as well as to understand the laws and know how to implement them on the field of play. The more games you officiate, the more you improve every day, and the better you become at making the right decisions depending on the situation.

What are some of the toughest moments you have faced on the field, and how did those experiences shape you?

I cannot really recall a particularly tough moment so far, except for the everyday complaints we get from coaches, but that is part of life. One thing about being a referee is that, whether you do well or not, people will always have something to say.

What message would you like to share with young girls in Namibia who dream of becoming referees or being part of football in general?

To the young girls out there, I have only one message. Take note of what you want to achieve in life, because that is your dream. Whatever you dream of, one day your dream will come true.

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na