Zebaldt Ngaruka
GOBABIS – Elrico Smith, the team manager of Young Brazilians FC, said his side always believed in returning to the Namibia Premier Football League (NPFL) after being crowned champions of the Southern Stream First Division (SSFD) at J. Stephanus Stadium on Sunday in Keetmanshoop.
The league champions were relegated last season from the country’s elite league but made a quick return after edging Mariental Sport Club (SC), who had led the standings for most of the campaign. Young Brazilians, also known as The Dakaza Boys, won the title with 42 points, while Mariental SC finished second on 41.
Smith shared that despite the setback of relegation, the team never lost hope of bouncing back to the top flight.
“After being relegated last year, we were left with five players, and the rest left the team. We were in a difficult position, and people thought it was the end of Young Brazilians,” he said.
He added that it was a tough period, but together with the club’s technical director, Silas Kennedy Namene, they remained committed to rebuilding the team. The club played various tournaments while scouting for players and regrouping, finishing the first leg of the season in fourth place.
In the second leg, the team strengthened the squad further by recruiting new players and appointing a youthful coach, Lionel Afrikaaner, to bolster the side from //Karasburg, now based in Keetmanshoop.
The relocation, due to a lack of sports fields in //Karasburg, brought its own challenges, particularly increased travelling, but the team remained focused on its objective.
Smith expressed excitement over winning the SSFD league, adding that the focus now shifts to competing in the NPFL.
“We are not going there as new boys, we are going there as contenders, and our quick return to the top flight league is a motivation,” he said.
He further stated that the club’s mission is to finish in the top four and that they plan to add a few more players to strengthen the squad.
He also urged supporters to continue rallying behind the team as they prepare for the new challenge.
Team captain Mbuende said winning the league was a result of hard work, unity and belief within the squad.
“This is not just a victory for us, but for everyone who stood behind the team. To our loyal supporters and fans, your energy and unwavering support carried us through every challenge, and we truly appreciate you,” he said.
Young Brazilians FC featured in the NPFL for five seasons after joining in the 2018/19 season.