Aili Iilonga
BRAVE Warriors coach Ricardo Mannetti has named his final team selection to represent Namibia at the 2019 African Cup of Nations tournament in Egypt after trimming the team from an initial 28 to the final 23 men-squad.
He coach left out unattached Virgil Vries, Chris Katjiukua, Teberius Lombard, Benjamen Nenkavu and Wesley Katjiteo.
Explaining the selection for the final team, Mannetti stated that tactics, conditioning, performance and attitude during the last two weeks in Dubai were areas on which the selection of the men focused.
“Those were the pillars of our decision. Also the inclusion of Ryan Nyambe at the back because of his versatility is key to the changes at the back.” said Mannetti.
The coach added that this might not be the best team but it is the right team for the tough competition that lies ahead.
“We feel this team has the right energy, they are right for the tactics and will represent Namibia to the best of their abilities. These are the right players with the right work ethic and harmony.”
The Brave Warriors are in Group D at the 32nd edition of the Afcon 209 torunament and will play Morocco on June 23 before taking on South Africa on June 28, both matches will be played at the Al Salam Stadium. They will play their final group game against the Ivory Coast on 1 July at Cairo International Stadium.
The squad selected for the honour of defending Namibia’s good name is Ratanda Mbazuvara, Loydt Kazapua, Max Mbaeva, Ryan Nyambe, Larry Horaeb, Denzil Haoseb, Ivan Kamberipa, Charles Hambira, Riaan Hanamub, Ananias Gebhardt, Absalom Iimbondi, Willy Stephanus, Petrus Shitembi, Ronald Ketjijere, Dynamo Fredericks, Marcel Papama, Manfred Starke, Deon Hotto, Itamunua Keimuine, Benson Shilongo, Peter Shalulile, Joslyn Kamatuka and Isaskar Gurirab.
