The Young Gladiators are eyeing a positive result when they begin their Fifa U20 Women’s World Cup qualification campaign against Congo Brazzaville on Sunday.
The first leg is scheduled to take place in Brazzaville at Stade-Alphonse Massamba Debat, with the return leg set for 13 October at the same venue, given Namibia’s failure to have a stadium that meet standards set by Fifa.
It is also a cost-cutting exercise by the cash-strapped Namibia Football Association (NFA), which still remains under a Fifa Normalisation Committee.
Both matches kick-off at 15h30.
Young Gladiators head coach Damaseb said the squad has been carefully selected to balance players already familiar with the national set-up and new promising talent.
“The plan remains the same; to get positive results throughout the qualifiers and advance to the tournament,” Damaseb said in an interview with the NFA.
Team captain Anna-Ida Somses said the Young Gladiators, who left for Brazzaville yesterday, are looking to make history in their quest to reach the prestigious tournament for the first time. They also want bring attention to Namibian women’s football with a good showing.
“We are excited to take on Congo Brazzaville, showcase our talents and create positive results from both matches,” she said.
The goalkeeping department consists of Sarafina Khuruses, Hilde Tjiueza and Iilonga Teolindus.
Completing the defensive unit are Aune Andreas, Onondjamo Kaetjavi, Okeri-Hitjitevi Haakuria, Talitha Aubes, Utuzuvira Kahiriri, Prisca Amuntale and Frieda Kenda.
Somses is the standout name in midfield, along with Brenda Tjozongoro, Kristofina Benyameni, Mclee Tsuses, Charlotte Richter and Aochamus Michelle.
Leading the attack are Albertina Fillipus, Elsabe Reinecke, Leena Alweendo, Chaselinne Jossop, Jekohasanna Kamatjipose, Michane Vries and Memory Nandova. – NFA
