Tura Magic Ladies Football Club retained their FNB Women Super League Title for the third consecutive year, following a 4-1 victory over V-Power Angels at the Namibia Football Association Technical Centre on Saturday.
National team utility player Lovisa Mulunga scored two goals, while United States of America-bound Thomalina Adams and national team captain Emma Naris scored one apiece in a thrilling clash.
Nancy Lebang scored the consolation goal for V-Power Angels.
Magic’s moment of triumph arrived when their closest contenders, Galz & Goalz, failed to secure maximum points against Unam Bokkies on the same day at the same venue.
That result automatically crowned Tura Magic as the 2022/23 champions before the kick-off of their match against Angels, as their 68 points meant they can no longer be caught this season.
Speaking after the match, Shama Gure, the head coach of Magic Ladies, reflected on the gruelling encounter, admitting it was one of the toughest battles of the season.
He commended their opponents for providing a tough challenge, expressing his satisfaction with his team’s ability to secure maximum points.
“While it would have been ideal to claim the title today, we must wait until next week to lift the trophy alongside our players. All of our hard work has finally paid off,” Gure remarked.
He attributed their triumph to a second-half resurgence, as the team regrouped and showcased their unity to secure the crucial victory.
Gure also praised the character displayed by their opponents, acknowledging their valiant efforts that truly tested Magic Ladies.
Taking a broader perspective on the season, Gure emphasised the immense competitiveness that unfolded among all the teams vying for the league title.
He expressed his anticipation for an even more challenging campaign in the upcoming season, given the high levels of determination shown by each team.
The three times winning coach highlighted the significance of the WSL return after a two-year hiatus, emphasising the hope it has instilled in young female players.
“It has been an exhilarating season in the WSL, especially considering the league’s absence for a period of two years. Witnessing its revival has implanted immense hope in aspiring young female players. Looking ahead, we anticipate an exciting and challenging next season, as teams now have the opportunity to regroup and prepare,” said Gure.
Meanwhile, the coach of V-Power Angels Risto Shikomba recognised the quality of the match but lamented his team’s morale-dampening concession of two goals in the first half.
Despite the defeat, he expressed appreciation towards his team for their commendable performance against the newly crowned champions.
He vowed to analyse their shortcomings and rectify them, striving for improved results in future encounters.
“While the outcome may not have been what we desired, I am nonetheless satisfied with the collective performance of our team,” acknowledged Simon’s coach.
“Conceding two goals in the first half significantly affected our morale, and we will analyse and address the areas that require improvement. We are determined to rectify our mistakes and bounce back stronger,” he said
In other notable results from Saturday’s matches, Unam Bokkies surprised Galz & Goalz with a narrow 1-0 victory, further illustrating the competitiveness of the Women’s Super League.