NFA explains Stars vs Chula match cancellation 

The Namibia Football Association (NFA) has confirmed the cancellation of the anticipated fundraising clash between African Stars and Eeshoke Chula Chula, which was scheduled for 31 August at Independence Stadium in Windhoek.

NFA spokesperson Isack Hamata says the decision was unavoidable after organisers failed to secure the N$800 000 required to stage the game.

“When we launched the match, we made it clear that it was a fundraising event for the Brave Warriors and that sponsors were needed to make it possible,” he says.

“It would have been irresponsible to go ahead without the necessary funds, as this would mean spending money we did not have.”

Hamata says while some pledges were made during the recent fundraising gala dinner, not all contributions were paid, leaving the committee unable to cover essentials such as logistics, service providers, and team costs.

“We had to cut our losses and call the match off. It is disappointing for supporters, but ticket sales alone were never going to be enough to generate the profit we needed to support the Brave Warriors’ preparations,” he says.

The cancellation is a major setback to fundraising efforts to support Namibia’s senior men’s national football team as they prepare for the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

Local football analyst Uaka Katuamba, speaking to Desert FM on Wednesday, described the cancellation as deeply disappointing and a reflection of poor planning.

“When I read the news, I was really disappointed. This was a match of huge magnitude the fans were eagerly anticipating. To cancel it shows poor organisation,” he said.

Katuamba said the NFA and the organising committee should have ensured funding was secured before announcing the match.

“You don’t organise something of this scale without being 100% sure where the money will come from. People had already bought tickets and even made travel arrangements to attend. This damages trust,” he said.

The analyst also questioned why Namibian corporate sponsors remain hesitant to support local football, while many of the same companies invest heavily in South African sport.

“In South Africa, you see tournaments like the Nedbank Cup worth millions. The same bank operates here, but cannot contribute even N$800 000 for one game that was meant for a good cause to help the Brave Warriors prepare for the World Cup qualifiers. It’s baffling,” Katuamba said.

Hamata says the NFA would make an announcement on ticket refunds soon.

“Some supporters have already indicated they want their ticket money to be considered a donation, while others will expect refunds. We will take all factors into account and announce the way forward,” he says.

Despite the setback, Hamata says the NFA remains committed to finding alternative ways to raise funds.

Meanwhile, the Brave Warriors continue their preparations and will travel to Francistown, Botswana, to face Malawi in back-to-back fixtures set for 5 and 9 September.

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