Benjamin announces preliminary squad

Football
Warriors are preparing for their crucial World Cup qualifiers, but off-field challenges threaten their campaign.
Brian Munango
  • 9 Hours Ago
The Brave Warriors have announced their final squad for the FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Malawi on March 17 and Equatorial Guinea on March 24, 2025. Head coach Collin Benjamin has named a strong team as Namibia aims for a historic World Cup qualification.



Preliminary Squad

The squad includes goalkeepers Loydt Kazapua, Edward Maova, and Kamaijanda Ndisiro. Defenders Ivan Kamberipa, Sergio Damaseb, Charles Hambira, Sisqo Haraseb, Johannes Mutanga, Bonifasius Josef, Welwin Hanamub, Ngero Katua, Petrus Kamati, Tyrese Hikupembe, and Tuhafeni David bolster the backline. The midfield consists of Aprocius Petrus, Moses Shidolo, Elias Haindongo, Paulus Amutenya, Mbakondja Tjahikika, Prins Tjiueza, Penda Mongudhi, Deon Hotto, Leevi Alfeus, and Dynamo Fredericks. Forwards include Peter Shalulile, Bethuel Muezu, Elmo Kambindu, Wiseman Liswaniso, Willy Stephanus, and Joslin Kamatuka.



Technical Team

Collin Benjamin leads the team, supported by Fabian Träger (Assistant Coach & Video Analyst), Willem Mwedihanga (2nd Assistant Coach), Arnold Subeb (Goalkeeper Coach), Garren Smith (Sport Scientist), Chase Bassinghtwaite (Team Doctor), Ndemupewa Shivute (Physio), Konrad Goagoseb (Kit Manager), Helvi Eliakim (Team Manager), Isak Frederick (Head of Delegation), and Nelson Haufiku (Deputy Head of Delegation).



Coach’s Comments

Benjamin expressed excitement about midfielder Dynamo Fredericks, saying, "He's raring to go, and I think we all welcome him." However, he raised concerns about unpaid wages affecting team morale. "We are demanding these guys to perform, yet they are not being paid. We need to motivate them. The FA has done its part, but more needs to be done. These players give their all for the country, and it's only fair that they receive the necessary financial and emotional support."



He further emphasized the importance of national unity: "Do we truly want to go to the World Cup? It must be intentional. We must ensure the players are paid and given proper incentives. When expectations are set, we must provide the resources. We cannot expect them to give their best when they are struggling off the pitch. We need to come together as a nation, as a community, and as stakeholders to make this happen. The players need to know that the country stands behind them, not just with words but with real, tangible support."



Benjamin expressed excitement about midfielder Dynamo Fredericks, saying, "He's raring to go, and I think we all welcome him." However, he raised concerns about unpaid wages affecting team morale. "We are demanding these guys to perform, yet they are not being paid. We need to motivate them. The FA has done its part, but more needs to be done."

He urged national unity: "Do we truly want to go to the World Cup? It must be intentional. We must ensure the players are paid and given proper incentives. When expectations are set, we must provide the resources."



Namibia sits second in the group with eight points from four matches, behind Tunisia. Benjamin remains optimistic: "These matches against Malawi and Equatorial Guinea are crucial. We must win to stay in contention."



Looking Ahead

With the nation’s support, the Brave Warriors aim to capitalize on their strong performances. Fans will closely watch as Namibia pushes for a spot in the World Cup.