WINDHOEK - National pride and dignity will be at stake when the Namibian U/15 girls’ football team gets down to action at the 2014 Youth Olympics in Nanjing, China.
Namibia Football Association (NFA) President, John Muinjo, told the team ahead of their departure for the games that they should take pride in national representation and give their best at all times.
“I have told them to remain focused and know that all Namibians are behind them and their victories will be our victories and their defeats will disappoint us as well. But we are cognizant of the fact that in sports you win and you lose and at this level of participation, the experience you garner is very helpful going forward,” said Muinjo.
He added that Namibia’s Group-B opponents - Mexico and the host China - are very tough nations but he expects the Namibian girls to spring a few surprises. The top two teams will reach the semi-finals on 23 August (Saturday) against the top teams from Group A (Slovakia, Venezuela and Papua New Guinea) with the final set for 26 August (Tuesday).
“We are not known that much at these games. We have that surprise element that we can spring and it will be very good if we can start well against Mexico on Sunday (17 August) and try to take our chances against China in the second game on Wednesday (20 August). Good luck to the team and the whole Namibian contingent,” Muinjo said.
Meanwhile, Executive President of the Nanjing 2014 organising committee, Yang Weize accompanied by IOC Executive Director, Gilbert Felli officially opened the Youth Olympic Village (YOV) on Tuesday. The Nanjing 2014 YOV will house 3 800 athletes, along with team coaches and officials and is the heart of the Games and a place where athletes can relax, make new friends from around the world.
The Namibian U/15 girls’ football team is as follows:
Quendra Kasume, Vetjiwa Tijvau, Mbitjitandjambi Mungunda, Chelsea De Gouveia, Jasmin Baas, Beverly Uueziua, Bianca Van Wyk, Ashley Solomons, Revival Gawanas, Christophine Hanse, Chaan Beukes, Ignacia Haoses, Anna Shaende, Nondiyo !Noreses, Tarakuje Rukero, Luzane de Wee, Asteria Angula, and Ivonne Kooper. Coach: Marvin Mbakera, assistant coach: Evelyn !Noreses.
By Staff Reporter
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