African Stars defeated Township Rollers 1-0 in their friendly match at Independence Stadium on Saturday. The decisive goal was scored by Reinhardt Gaseb in the second half.

Head coach of African Stars, Ronnie Kanalelo, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that it met their expectations as they focused on the basics.

 “I assess my team and our opponents – when they have the ball, are they threatening us? Is the
goalkeeper under pressure? Is our defence struggling? If the answer is no, then I know we’re on the right track.

“There was aggression in defending and ball retention. One thing going forward is the pressing high, low, or middle which looks good. The physical presence was there. He went in and demonstrated what strength is about,” Kanalelo added.

Godwin Eiseb, who recently joined Stars from Unam FC, commented on the club’s setup, saying it isn’t too different from what he’s used to, having played under Kanalelo before. “There isn’t much difference as I understand his philosophy. I’m more of a playmaker, so expect more assists as the new season approaches,” he said.

Laudry Mukaba, who joined Stars from the Democratic Republic of Congo, mentioned that this is his first time in Namibia, and that he aims to be the top goal scorer in the upcoming season.

Township Rollers head coach Mogomotsi “Teenage” Mpote, who signed with the club in July, thanked Stars for hosting the match. “Thanks to Stars for allowing us to play here. This is my first competitive game. We lost, but it was important to give the boys some game time. We have things to work on. The boys played well, but their weakness was in the entry point. They didn’t create chances as I wanted, and Stars gave us a tough game.

In the first half, we were on the front foot, but in the second half, we were on the back foot,” Mpote continued, as he played different teams in each half to give all
players game time. “Township has a rich history with many titles, but it’s now a different ball game.”

Namibian player Marcel Papama, who plays for Township Rollers, said playing in Botswana has been a great experience, and that they are doing their best to develop as players. He added that Stars have quality players all over the pitch. “They have players in the national side, and they stand a great chance.”

 Stars will be going head-to-head with Jwaneng Galaxy FC on 17 August at 13h00 as part of the CAF Champions League qualification.” – lmupetami@nepc.com.na