Namibia Names Strong Squad for AFCON Qualifiers, Includes PSL Stars
Namibia’s national team, led by coach Collin Benjamin, has unveiled a full-strength 28-man squad for the remaining two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Cameroon and Kenya. Despite their slim chances, Namibia aims to close out the qualifiers on a high note, featuring 10 players from South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) and two more from Botswana’s top clubs. Although Namibia has yet to win a match in the qualifiers and is eliminated from contention for the AFCON finals in Morocco, Benjamin’s team selection underscores their intent to finish strong.
Among the squad’s standout players is striker Peter Shalulile, a key figure for Mamelodi Sundowns in the PSL. Known for his attacking prowess, Shalulile will be crucial in spearheading Namibia’s offense. He is joined by fellow PSL talents such as Deon Hotto from Orlando Pirates and Riaan Hanamub of AmaZulu, both of whom bring significant experience and skill to the squad. These players, along with midfielders Approcius Petrus and Prins Tjiueza, will provide valuable depth and versatility, reflecting Namibia's commitment to fielding a competitive team.
Namibia’s defense also benefits from a blend of local and foreign talent, with players like Ivan Kamberipa from Botswana's Orapa United and Kennedy Eib from Eeshoke Chula Chula in Namibia. This balanced approach extends to the midfield, featuring Paulus Amutenya and Lawrence Doeseb alongside PSL and Botswana league players, aiming to create a cohesive unit capable of challenging both Cameroon and Kenya.
Due to the lack of approved stadiums in Namibia, the team will host their November 15 match against Cameroon at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg. This arrangement is part of a continued workaround since the Confederation of African Football (CAF) deemed Namibia's home stadiums unfit for international games. Similarly, the away match against Kenya on November 19 will not take place in Kenya, as the country currently lacks suitable venues for international fixtures.
Although Namibia’s path to the AFCON finals is closed following four consecutive losses, the squad’s high-caliber lineup is expected to bring competitive performances. The inclusion of experienced players from the PSL and Botswana league suggests that Benjamin is setting the groundwork for future campaigns, looking to build confidence and cohesion among his players.
The Namibian team’s roster not only highlights the importance of regional talent from leagues in South Africa and Botswana but also underscores the broader development goals for Namibian football. For fans and players alike, these matches offer a valuable platform to compete at an international level, maintaining pride and spirit as they aim to end their qualification journey with strong performances against well-ranked opponents.
With a lineup of seasoned professionals, Namibia’s upcoming fixtures present an opportunity to test their mettle and prepare for future tournaments, using these high-stakes matches as a foundation for growth and development.
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