Namibia swap one regional trophy for another

Jun 24, 2016

"This victory demonstrates that Namibia have strength in depth," said coach Ricardo Mannetti.

Hosts Namibia exchanged one Cosafa southern Africa football championship trophy for another Friday when they beat Zambia 1-0 to win the plate final in Windhoek.

Captain Ronald Ketjijere scored the 21st-minute match-winner by converting a penalty after Donashano Malama handled a Deon Hotto cross at Sam Nujoma Stadium.

Last year, the 'Brave Warriors' won the Cosafa Cup for the first time by defeating Mozambique in the final in South Africa.

But their title defence lasted just one match despite home advantage as they lost a penalty shootout against Botswana in the quarter-finals and were demoted to the plate competition.

After an ultimately easy 3-0 plate semi-finals win over Mozambique, Namibia found Zambia much stronger opposition and had to withstand a late onslaught to succeed.

"This victory demonstrates that Namibia have strength in depth," said coach Ricardo Mannetti. "We lacked some regulars but still beat a country that were African champions four years ago."

South Africa seek a record-equalling fourth Cosafa Cup title Saturday when they tackle surprise qualifiers Botswana in the final.

The final will be preceded by the third place play-off between championship 'guests' the Democratic Republic of Congo and Swaziland.

DR Congo were invited when Cosafa members Comoros declined to compete in the annual tournament.





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