Brave Warriors gaffer Collin Benjamin has expressed delight with the overall progress and intensity being displayed by the youngsters who form part of the national senior team’s 40-man provisional squad. 

Benjamin and his charges have been hard at work preparing for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) away qualifier against Cameroon slated for Friday, 24 March at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé. The second leg takes place on 28 March in Johannesburg, South Africa. 

Speaking to New Era Sport on the sidelines of yesterday’s training session at the Namibia Football Association (NFA) Technical Centre, Benjamin said structuring the team is coming along well. 

The coach is particularly happy with the way the younger players are learning from their more experienced teammates and the level of intensity they are bringing.

“I believe the players have a solid fitness foundation, but it’s important that we further enhance their intensity during game situations. That’s why I think the team is currently in good physical condition. Our focus now is on maintaining and building upon this level of fitness, ensuring that the players are able to perform at their best on the field of play and in real match situations,” he said.

Sharing his thoughts on the team’s youngsters, Benjamin said: “It’s clear that the young players bring a lot of energy to the squad, and they are eager to learn and contribute in any way they can. On the other hand, the experienced players play an important role in guiding the younger players and sharing their wealth of knowledge. This process of mentoring and learning cannot be rushed and it takes time to develop. As a technical team, we are thrilled that the players have a hunger and drive to learn and improve, which bodes well for the team’s future success.” 

Meanwhile, veteran midfielder Absalom Iimbondi also commended the positive impact of the mixture of experienced and new players, which he said brings a new flair to the team.

“Training has been challenging, but I am pleased with the effort and performance displayed by my teammates on the field. The new players are adapting very well and have brought fresh energy to our training sessions. We haven’t had a chance to play any matches yet, but one can see that the new players have definitely made an impact on the team’s dynamic,” said Iimbondi. 

- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na