… But have to beat Zambia in last group match to avoid hosts Morocco
By John Tuerijama
Despite a relatively poor performance against the ‘Cranes’ of Uganda in their second Group B match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) finals last night in Marrakech, the Brave Warriors still managed to score a late extra-time goal and book their place in the competition’s quarterfinals.
Substitute Haleluya Nekundi netted home Namibia’s only goal, after displaying perfect ball control in front of the Ugandan net, before slotting the winner, and sparking joyous celebration throughout the country.
There was a deathly quiet during the match on the streets of Katutura, but when the goal was scored, motorists hooted and fans ululated, to celebrate the Warriors quarterfinal berth in their maiden CHAN finals.
A mouth-watering Southern African Development Community (SADC) derby takes place next Monday at 21h00, when the Brave Warriors take on the ‘Chipolopolo’ of Zambia in Cassablanca, in a match that will determine the winners of Group B.
The Group B runners-up will take on the winners of Group A, hosts Morocco, while the winners of Group B will take on Sudan.
After last night’s match, Brave Warriors head coach Ricardo Mannetti’s objective of reaching the CHAN quarterfinals is now a reality.
Namibia is currently in second place in Group B, with six points, while Zambia, also on six points, is at the summit of the group, courtesy of a superior goal difference.