With the 23rd edition of the Nedbank Namibian U20 Newspaper Cup kicking off tomorrow, the hosts //Kharas Region are already feeling the weight of expectation as they prepare to welcome the nation’s best young talent to Keetmanshoop.
Excitement is building across the country, but particularly in //Kharas, where senior players Moses Shidolo and Awilo Stephanus have thrown their full support behind their home region to deliver a strong performance on home soil.
Currently playing in Zimbabwe for Scottland FC, Shidolo described the tournament as a vital platform for young players to launch their careers.
“This cup is very important for young players to express their talent. For me, it’s the starting point of many players’ careers. Scouts from Premier League teams will be watching closely, and even national u20 coaches will be there. It’s a real stepping stone for the youth.”
He also acknowledged the effort it takes to earn a place in a regional squad, urging players to remain disciplined and focused.
“First of all, I want to congratulate all the players who made their regional squads. It’s not easy to get there. Dedication, hard work, and passion are key to success. Mindset matters—confidence comes from discipline and preparation. Support your teammates, respect your coaches, and maintain good character.”
Despite backing his region, Shidolo raised concerns about limited representation from smaller towns within //Kharas.
“I know very well that my region has talent, but I barely see players from all sides being included. Most of the players come from Keetmanshoop and Karasburg.”
Drawing from his own experience, he emphasized that talent exists across the region.
“We have places like Tses, Bethanie, Oranjemund, and Rosh Pinah with real quality. I played many tournaments while I was at school in Bethanie, and I know these small towns have talent. It’s just how things are, I guess.”
Meanwhile, African Stars forward Awilo Stephanus reflected on his own journey through the tournament, highlighting just how impactful the Newspaper Cup can be for young players.
“I think I had the best experience when it comes to the Namibian Newspaper Cup. I’m not sure if any player before me or after me holds the record as the youngest to ever feature in the tournament, but I made my debut at the age of 15 in 2007.”
Stephanus revealed that the tournament played a key role in launching his professional career.
“After that tournament, I was recruited by Fedics United from Keetmanshoop, where I made my Namibia Premier League debut in the 2007/08 season. I also featured in two more tournaments in 2009 and 2010, but unfortunately we lost in the semi-finals on all three occasions.”
He concluded with a message of encouragement to the current //Kharas squad, urging them to believe in their dreams—especially with the advantage of playing at home.
“My message to the //Kharas regional team players is to never stop dreaming, because dreams do come true. I was spotted at the Newspaper Cup, and so can you.”
With the region hosting the tournament this year, //Kharas will be eager to rise to the occasion. The hosts have only won the competition once since its inception in 2001, lifting the trophy in 2019 after a 2-1 victory over the Otjozondjupa Region in the final, thanks to goals from winger Heinrich Plaatjies and midfielder Simeon ‘Kante’ Namondi.
Prior to that triumph, //Kharas fell short in two finals—losing on penalties to the Hardap Region in 2006 after a 2-2 draw, and suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to the Khomas Region in 2011.
Head coach Tolla Julius has since named his final 20-man squad, which is as follows:
Lumando Basson, Zhahied Bostander, Giovanni Kooper, Tiaan Christiaan, Dawid Plaatjies, Hernandus Josob, Mweneni Iyambo, Tuundjakuje Kandingua, Delano Kuteeue, Herman Shimwetheleni, Malvin Kruger, Chris-Lee Vries, Juanito Goliath, Johann Swartbooi, Joandry Motinga, Johan Kooper, Javier Jacobs, Cameron Christiaan, Giano Bostander, Anthony Lama.
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