Despite Namibia’s exit from the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifiers, local football pundits have lauded the overall performance of the Brave Gladiators, saying there were a lot of positives to take home.

The Gladiators played to a goalless draw in the first leg away in Lusaka last Wednesday, but Tuesday’s second- leg 1-all draw in Johannesburg, South Africa, saw the Namibians bowing out of the 2022 AWCON qualifiers as a result of the away goal rule. 

Football analyst Isack Hamata said he was happy with the way the team played in both legs, saying they lost out with their heads held high and made the nation proud.

“I am disappointed that the girls didn’t make it to the 2022 AWCON, but it seems like their game plan did not work out for them as they conceded a late goal. They scored early and decided to defend the entire match, which saw them lose concentration and concede. But overall, I am happy with the unity in the team, the fighting spirit”. 

“I was impressed with how everyone fought, and with the whole technical team as well. We put up a great game, but unfortunately we didn’t go through,” reflected Hamata. 

Also speaking about the Gladiators’ performance was former national women’s senior team player Stacy Naris, who felt proud of how the girls conducted themselves, and how they stood toe-to-toe with a tough and experienced Zambian side. 

“I am happy with our performance, although we didn’t manage to go through. But from the way we played, you could see that the players wanted to qualify. It just wasn’t their day. However, I can say I am proud and hoping to see what this team is capable of doing in the future,” she observed.

-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na

Brave…The Brave Gladiators have been lauded for courageous performances against Zambia during the recent 2022 AWCON qualifiers. -Photo: Contributed