U17 boys take on Westphalia test

The Namibia under 17 football squad has been in training as they gear up for the first of two exhibition matches against the German regional team, Westphalia.

The matches are scheduled to take place in Swakopmund today (18:00 at Vineta Stadium) and at Gobabis on Saturday at Legare Stadium.

Last week, 35 players were called up and reported for training. However, only 18 players made the selection for the final squad to face the touring Germans.

Assistant coach Shakes Malembu said they had increased squad from the initial 35 to 40 players, with the aim of adding depth and intensity during the training camp.

“We initially assembled a squad of 35 players, but then increased it to 40 as we invited some boys from across the country to add more depth.

“These boys were selected through the Debmarine under-15 tournament that was held last year. Our team looks quite formidable, filled with a lot of raw talent,” he said.

Malembu mentioned how the boys have not been exposed to enough games to keep them consistent in terms of playing time and match fitness. The last few days were spent improving the fitness and conditioning.

“These boys have not been playing competitive football for quite some time, because when you look at their age they are supposed to be exposed to so many matches, whether it be at school or academy level.

“This has now become a challenge for us as coaches; however it is our duty as coaches to identify players with potential and to build and nurture them to compete at a higher level,” he added.

Robinho van Wyk, selected among the forwards, brings some valuable experience with him, having earned seven caps for the national under-17s.

He is eager and enthusiastic to demonstrate his abilities and represent his country on the field.

“I have been working hard during the holiday prior to the call-up, so when I got the call that just elevated me to train harder.

“It is always an exciting feeling when you get called up to the national team. I have played for the national team a few times since our last outing in Malawi for the under-17 Cosafa Cup tournament in 2022.”

Van Wyk feels more in tune having gained some experience playing for Namibia and believes the team is ready to face the Germans.

“I feel a lot more confident from our last trip to Germany not so long ago, despite the fact that we were not fully prepared physically and mentally.

“This time around the team has been doing well in training and if you look at the number of players we have now says a lot. Everyone is looking to cement a spot in the starting team,” he said.



The Namibia U17 squad of 18 players:

Goalkeepers: Rodriques Kaneb, Mcheni Kavendjii.

Defenders: Wangu Katjirurua, Tjiunatjo Kakuenje, Tino Guiseb, Rowan Owaseb, Kedimetse Modise, Phumi Damien Malgas.

Midfielders: Willem Nghuvali, Melvin Kruger, Jacob Stiebel, Fabiano Awaseb, Delpiero Loam.

Forwards: Joandre Motinga, Robinho van Wyk, Christiano Useb, Rashid Naobeb, Tiago Willemse.