Keetmanshoop: The Erongo Region became the second team to secure a place in the semi-finals of the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup on Sunday, following a hard-fought 3-2 victory in a penalty shoot-out against Oshikoto.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the 24th edition of the prestigious tournament got underway on Friday at Westdene Stadium in Keetmanshoop. Oshikoto entered the quarter-final clash as favourites after topping Group B with a perfect nine points, having delivered impressive performances during the group stages. However, Erongo, who also progressed unbeaten, carried their strong form into the knockout round, setting up a tightly contested encounter.

The match itself lacked attacking flair, with both sides effectively cancelling each other out. Clear scoring opportunities were scarce, and neither team managed to register meaningful shots on target as the game ended goalless in regulation time. Although Oshikoto enjoyed spells of possession and kept the Erongo defence under pressure, they failed to convert their chances. Erongo, meanwhile, attempted to capitalise on counterattacks, but these efforts yielded little reward.

The second half saw an increase in intensity from both teams, yet the deadlock remained unbroken, forcing the match into a penalty shoot-out. Erongo's goalkeeper proved decisive, saving two spot-kicks while another Oshikoto attempt went wide. Oshikoto's goalkeeper responded with two saves of his own after his side fell behind early in the shoot-out, but it was ultimately not enough, as Oshikoto bowed out despite their strong showing in the group stages.

With their semi-final berth secured, Erongo will now face Omaheke. This year's tournament, hosted in the ||Kharas Region, has attracted more than 600 young athletes competing in both football and netball. Since its inception in 2001, the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup has remained a cornerstone of youth sports development in Namibia, providing a vital pathway from grassroots participation to national recognition.