Hilma Nalupe 

The Brave Warriors suffered a 0-1 defeat against Comoros during their first encounter in Moroni, Comoros last Friday. 

During the 84th minute, Comoros player Ali Aboubacar scored for his side, ensuring their win against the Brave Warriors. Although the result was disappointing for Namibia, the match served as an important platform for the technical team to assess player readiness and combinations. The two teams are scheduled to play their second friendly this afternoon, at the Malouzini Omnisports Stadium in Moroni, Comoros. This follow-up match offers the Brave Warriors another opportunity to refine their tactical approach and correct the areas that proved challenging in the first encounter. 

The matches also provide players the opportunity to earn their first international caps. 

The matches between the two countries are Tier 1 international friendly matches, officially sanctioned and authorised by FIFA and affect both countries’ FIFA ranking points, which are vital for seeding in future competitions. 

Namibia’s head coach, John Sikerete reflecting on Friday’s match said it went well, despite the team’s loss. “ It was a good experience for most of our local players, who for the first time played against international players, because none of the Comoros players play locally,” he said. 

Regarding today’s fixture, Sikerete believes his team has prepared well and have experienced how their opponents play and the Warriorrs will work on how to counter them today. 

“Comoros is one of the most improved teams in Africa, looking at how they started and where they are now. We will be taking the match as it comes, we have seen the areas we can improve on and we are well prepared to play our best.” Sikerete said. 

-hnalupe@nepc.com.na