GOBABIS – Namibia Premier League outfit Young African will play their upcoming Confederation of African Football (CAF) Cup home match against Eswatini’s Royal Leopards in Francistown, Botswana, next month.

The match is scheduled for Saturday, 20 September, at 15h00 at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium.

Young African’s manager Maleagi Ngarizemo told Nampa that the unavailability of CAF-approved stadiums in Namibia forced the team to seek stadiums from neighbouring countries such as Botswana and Eswatini.

He said the team had initially hoped to play the match in Namibia, but this was not possible because the country currently lacks a stadium that meets CAF’s level 2 requirements. “CAF requires host nations to provide formal approval by a strict deadline. The Botswana National Sport Commission was the only one to approve our request within the mandated time frame officially,” said the manager. He thanked the Botswana National Sport Commission for their cooperation and swift action, adding that the change may require adjustment for the team’s dedicated fans.

“We are working tirelessly to facilitate travel information and will communicate any available details through our official channels immediately,” he said.

After the match in Botswana, Young African will travel directly to Eswatini for the return leg against Royal Leopards at their home ground, initially scheduled for Mbabane.

This unique double-header against the same opponent, according to the manager, is a significant challenge, but the team is focused and prepared.

“We call on the supporters to rally behind the team in spirit from wherever they are. Your unwavering support is our 12th player. We appreciate your understanding and continued loyalty as we navigate the complexities of continental competition,” he said.  -Nampa