THE long-awaited new MTC Namibia Premier League season opens with a mouth-watering derby clash between bitter rivals Black Africa and Orlando Pirates on 12 May. The showdown is scheduled for Windhoek’s Independence Stadium.
Champions Tigers finally begin their title defence the day after, which is just over 12 months since ending a 31-year-wait for league honours for the country’s oldest football club.
They play against Mighty Gunners at the Mokati Stadium at Otjiwarongo, where former powerhouse Life Fighters make their return to the top flight against fellow newcomers Young African in the match thereafter.
Another Premiership returnee with a rich history is Chief Santos, who are away to Civics at Windhoek’s Independence Stadium on 13 May, and then tackle African Stars at the same venue the following day.
The opening round also sees Rundu Chiefs host Tura Magic; African Stars at home to Young Chiefs; Eleven Arrows versus Citizens; and Blue Waters against Unam FC.
Round two on 14 May begins with a midday encounter between Civics and Young Chiefs at Windhoek’s Independence Stadium, followed by Stars against Santos before Pirates take on Young African.
In Otjiwarongo, the Gunners welcome Magic, with Life Fighters entertaining BA.
Tigers’ second match of the weekend will take them to Rundu for a fixture against Chiefs, while Blue Waters and Arrows have home games against Citizens and Unam at the Kuisebmund Stadium at Walvis Bay.
