As the first leg of the 2023/24 Debmarine Namibia Premier Football League concludes, defending champions African Stars find themselves perched at the summit, signalling a promising start to their title defence. The league is now set to take a break until February next year, after 15 exciting matches in the first leg. Stars have asserted their dominance, securing the top spot with an impressive 36 points from 15 matches. Their remarkable record includes 11 victories, one defeat, and three draws. Notably, 26 of their 36 points were earned in home games, showcasing their formidable strength on their home turf. The team boasts the longest unbeaten streak of the season, with an impressive 11-match run.
In second place is the exciting newly promoted side, Khomas Nampol, who sits closely behind with 34 points, just two points adrift of the leaders. The police team has been dominant, securing 11 victories out of 15 matches while conceding only nine goals, the fewest in the league. Formerly known as Tura Magic, FC Ongos occupies the third position with 32 points. Ongos has displayed a commendable performance, winning 10 matches, suffering three defeats, and securing two draws during the season. Another rising force in the Namibian football sphere, Eeshoke Chula Chula, claims the fourth position with 25 points, showcasing their potential with seven wins, four draws, and four losses.
As they aim to enhance their performance in the Premier League, their promising run indicates a team on the rise. They are a team that can claim to be the most supported during the first half of the season.
Last season’s runner-up, Blue Waters, finds themselves in the fifth position with 21 points from 15 matches.
The coastal team has demonstrated consistency with six wins, six losses, and three draws.
Stars’ head coach, Mervin Mbakera, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s position, emphasising their goal to compete in the Caf Champions League. “We are on the right track,” Mbakera stated, looking forward to the break to rest and build on their performance for the upcoming season.
In the relegation zone, Khomasdal outfit Civics is positioned 14th with 12 points, while Life Fighters sit in 15th place with 11 points.
At the bottom of the log is Orlando Pirates, with eight points, facing the challenging task of climbing out of the relegation zone in the next leg of the Debmarine Premiership.