African Stars and Ongos Ladies emerged victorious in the PstBet Namibia Football Association (NFA) Cup matches held on Saturday at the Independence Stadium in Windhoek.
In a thrilling encounter, Stars edged out Young Brazilians with a 2-1 victory, adding another trophy to their cabinet shortly after winning the DebMarine Premier League in April. Stars claimed the coveted trophy and the N$500 000 prize money.
Willy ‘Awillo’ Stephanus was the hero for Stars, netting the first goal via a penalty in the 22nd minute. Young Brazilians fought back with a goal from Quinton van Staden in the 80th minute, but had to settle for the runner-up spot and N$250 000 as Stephanus sealed the win with a second goal in extra time.
Khomas NamPol secured third place by defeating Eeshoke Chula Chula 3-2, earning N$100 000, while Chula Chula walked away with N$50 000 for their efforts. This victory marks the sixth time Stars have lifted the cup. Their previous wins were in 2007, 2010, 2013, 2014 and 2018.
On the women’s side, Ongos Ladies clinched the title and N$250 000 by beating Khomas NamPol 2-1. NamPol received N$12 000 for their second-place finish. Beauties FC claimed third place with a 3-0 victory over NUST Babes, earning N$70 000, while NUST took home N$40 000.
Stars’ head manager Ronnie Kanalelo praised the competitive nature of the match. “We maintained control until we scored, after which we lost our organisation. Certain aspects of our game model were compromised. For instance, we were unable to build up from the back as our attacking midfielders, who are more proficient with the ball, moved too early towards our forwards, removing them from play.
“We surrendered possession too easily and lost most of the second balls due to our static positioning. Our pressing and pressure were overly passive,” he said.
He continued, “Consequently, Young Brazilians grew determined and slightly desperate, intensifying the game. We struggled somewhat without the ball. They forced errors and managed to equalise.
“However, using our tactical changes and experience, we regained control during extra time. We had the opportunity to extend our lead early in the second half of extra time, but a lack of composure in attacking was a consistent issue throughout the game for us. Overall, both teams put on a thrilling display, keeping everyone on edge,” he said.
Head coach of Ongos Shama Gure said the final was great. “Glory be to God, and to NFA in collaboration with PstBet for making it exciting.”
“The number was never going to be an easy one, and that much we were aware of. They really gave us a run for our money in the way they countered every approach to penetrate their defence line.
“I applaud my girls for sticking to the plan, and going for glory. With regards to how we played, I must say not one of the cleanest games ever, and we knew it would be difficult playing our game against a NamPol that was looking to break down our efforts.
After going up by a goal, I expected dominance, but NamPol were equal to the task, and showed character in search of the equaliser. They persistently knocked and the door was opened via a red card and award of a penalty. Personally, I feel it was a rather harsh decision coming from the match official of the day. However, she is the boss, and took the decision that best warranted the moment in the match.”
Individual accolades were also awarded. Young Brazilians’ Quinton van Staden was named Player of the Tournament, while Unam FC’s Shaun Rugam emerged as the Top Goal Scorer with seven goals. Stars’ Kamaijanda Ndisiro received the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award.
In the women’s category, Ongos’ Lydiana Nanamus was honoured as Player of the Tournament, and Ivonne Kooper, also from Ongos, finished as the Top Goal Scorer with eight goals.
Khomas NamPol’s Fenny Mwalunga was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament. The Referee of the Tournament award went to Naftal Negongo, with Eveline Agustinus recognised as the Assistant Referee of the Tournament.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na