Tell us a little about yourself and how your football journey started?
I was born in the dusty streets of Kayengona, a village in the eastern side of Rundu. I was introduced and exposed to football at an early age while at school. Football was the only sport that we knew growing up in our community, so, it was quite easy for us as young boys to fall in love with the sport as early as four years of age.
Coming through the development ranks at regional level and eventually finding your way into the Debmarine Namibia Premiership with Julinho Sporting, how has that evolution been for you?
It has been good, I must say. I mean for the bigger part of my career I have always played for small teams in the Second Division and then luckily, I got a chance earlier last year to be part of a premier league – something I have always dreamt of as a boy.
What do you hope to achieve this season with Julinho Sporting FC?
My aspiration for this season with my team is to secure a top-two finish. We have a talented squad and I believe that if we maintain consistency throughout each match, we have the potential to reach this goal.
What are some of your individual goals for this season?
As a newcomer to the top-flight league, I recognise that it has been a challenging transition, however, my personal goal for this season is to score at least 10 goals. Our collective aim as a team is to finish in the top two on the log and I want to contribute to that goal.
What would you say have been some of the biggest challenges of your football career?
As a player, you obviously have daily challenges that at times seem normal but I would say the biggest challenge has been lack of motivation. I don’t think I get enough people to motivate me and give me that courage to keep chasing my dream. I know that every time I step on the field, I’m expected to do my best, but getting that small boost to uplift you as a player always makes a huge difference. However, I have been getting support from some of my teammates who believes in me and what I am capable of.
Last year, you were selected to represent the country’s U/20 national team at the AUSC Region 5 Games in Lilongwe, Malawi. But unfortunately, you could not travel due to injury. How big of a disappointment was that for you?
To be selected to be part of the national team was one of my biggest career highlights, although I didn’t make the final team that travelled due to late injuries. However, the call up to the national team gave me hope and courage to continue chasing my dreams. The knowledge I gained while in camp with the team was immense and overwhelming.
In general, how would you describe the experience of being in camp with the U/20 national team and learning from your new teammates?
Playing for the national team is always an incredible honour and an unforgettable experience. Every time a player steps onto the field wearing my country’s colours, it fills one with immense pride and responsibility. The competition is always intense in camp and the pressure is high, but that just makes you work even harder for your position. Also, the camaraderie and bond I have formed with my teammates is special and something I will treasure for the rest of my life.
Who would you say are some of your biggest role models as a footballer; local or international?
My role models are Cristiano Ronaldo, Robert Lewandowski, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. I have been a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo since I was seven or eight years of age. I admire the way he approaches the game, consistently winning awards and embracing challenges in football. He is my idol because he has broken numerous records in world football and continues to set new ones, which I have been fortunate enough to witness.
What do you make of Julinho Sporting’s current run in the Debmarine Namibia Premiership?
As a team, I think we’re performing well. We are currently sitting 6th on the log table and strongly believe that is fair reflection of our efforts. But we are hoping to improve on that and make it to the second place. If we can maintain consistency, I’m confident that we will achieve all our desired goals.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In the next five years, I aim to earn a constant spot on the senior national team and pursue a career abroad. I am confident in my abilities and believe that playing in a foreign league, specifically the Premier Soccer League (PSL), would fulfil my personal and professional aspirations.
Thank you for your time…
You are very much welcome.