African Stars Football Club have once again etched their name into the history books after successfully defending their Debmarine Namibia Premier League title, drawing 1-1 against Mighty Gunners in an away fixture – clinching the championship with a game to spare over the weekend.

The Windhoek-based giants expressed heartfelt gratitude to their fans, players, technical team and sponsors, acknowledging everyone who contributed to making the 2024/25 season a memorable one.

Despite enduring a turbulent season, marked by managerial changes, with Ronnie Kanalelo and Benni Haoseb (interim) both taking the helm at different stages, the team remained focused. 

The club’s success was ultimately steered by current head coach Bob Mafoso from Lesotho, who took charge and guided the team to another glorious finish.

Now assistant coach, Haoseb reflected on the club’s achievement, calling it a remarkable milestone for the Stars institution.

“Credit goes to the entire squad – the players, the technical team and management. We worked together as a unit to maintain focus and balance in the camp. It wasn’t easy, especially with strong challenges from teams like Ongos, Young African and Khomas Nampol, who pushed us all the way to the end. These situations only make us stronger. Next season will be even tougher because every club will be gunning for our crown. We must remain focused to defend it again,” he stated.

African Stars’ rich championship history began in 1994, followed by their 2008/09 triumph and a successful title defense the following season. 

They reclaimed the crown in 2014/15, then again in 2017/18, before dominating once more in 2022/23 and now in 2023/24.

Meanwhile, Young Brazilians have been relegated from the top-flight, joining Blue Boys and Cuca Tops, who were already confirmed for the drop last week.

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na