Opuwo: The Namport Kunene Regional Second Division Football League is set to kick off this weekend, headlined by four electrifying Opuwo derby matches on Saturday and Sunday. The long-awaited league will begin with a bang as Opuwo, the capital of the Kunene Region, hosts four games featuring teams that are well-acquainted with one another.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the league’s interim coordinator, Bolla Nangombe, announced the first two rounds of fixtures on Thursday, setting the stage for an exciting weekend of competitive football at the Newman Katuta Stadium, where all Opuwo-based teams will clash. On Saturday, Kunene NamPol will face off against Okarindi Komutati in a heated derby, reigniting last season’s rivalry, which was primarily won by Okarindi. NamPol will then take on the newly promoted Epupa Zebra Stars on Sunday.
Kunene NamPol’s coach, Filemon Wilhem, is optimistic about securing victories in both matches. In a Thursday interview with Nampa, he noted that the team had three weeks of solid preparation for these encounters. ‘We are ready for this, with three weeks of effective training. We brought in new players to strengthen the squad,’ he said. Wilhem emphasised they are well-acquainted with their opponents due to several previous encounters in local tournaments and aim to secure all six points.
On the other hand, Epupa Zebra Stars are eager to make their mark as newcomers. Their coach, Uatjiruapi Tjingorori, expressed confidence, stating they have no reason to fear any team and are also targeting maximum points. ‘We are well-prepared, with all players fit and ready to play. We aren’t intimidated by anyone,’ he affirmed. Despite Kunene NamPol’s formidable reputation, Tjingorori asserted that his team will remain poised and determined.
On Saturday, they will also compete against Opuwo Golden Wolves, a familiar rival, as both teams were promoted together last season. Okarindi Komutati will take on Opuwo Golden Wolves on Sunday in another Opuwo derby. Other matches over the weekend include last season’s champions, Robber Chanties, hosting Sixty Eleven at Herbert Conradie Stadium in Khorixas. Kamanjab will see Grootberg United face !Ugab, and Green Dangers take on Khaibasen, while Etosha United will challenge Young Eagles.
Sunday’s lineup features Grootberg versus Ugab, Etosha United against Khaibasen, and Green Dangers battling Young Eagles, with Robber Chanties concluding the weekend against !Ugab at Khorixas.