The U/21 Namibian national netball team faced a setback in their bid for a fifth-place finish, losing 50-42 to Kenya in a crucial match of the Netball World Youth Cup qualifier. 

Despite a promising start, including a spirited victory against Tanzania (55-17) after an initial loss to Malawi (48-23), the team’s momentum was interrupted by off-court challenges. 

The withdrawal of defender Desdamona Tjirera due to the loss of her mother affected team morale, leading to a drawn match against Kenya (44-44) and subsequent defeats against South Africa (61-25) and Zambia (45-41).

 Coach Jones Musambani acknowledged
the team’s struggle to maintain focus amidst personal tragedy. Meanwhile, the Spar Bay Proteas claimed the top spot in the qualifiers with a convincing win over Malawi (45-26), securing
a berth alongside Zambia and Malawi for
next year’s Netball World Youth Cup in
Gibraltar.

 -lmupetami@nepc.com.na