Warriors safe in Kazakhstan

Football
Namibia’s senior national team has settled well in Kazakhstan and is preparing for battle.
Jesse Jackson Kauraisa
  • 15 Hours Ago

The Brave Warriors had their first training camp in Kazakhstan and have already completed their first training session.

The team, which transited through Ethiopia and Turkey before arriving in Kazakhstan, is in good spirits despite the war in the Middle East.

The team is set to compete in the FIFA International Friendly Series in the Central Asian country.

Coach Collin Benjamin said the players are looking forward to the matches.

“The players are raring to go and showcase themselves in these important encounters.

“It is an exciting time for many because they have never been beyond African borders.

“They are now able to compete in a very important tournament, and that is all thanks to FIFA for making this possible,” Benjamin said.

The first training session was mainly focused on regeneration and getting the muscles moving after the long flight.

Mbakondja Tjahikika, Sergio Damaseb, and Tjipenandjambi Karuuombe joined the locally based players, while more foreign-based players are set to join the team.

This year’s edition features 48 teams across 12 groups worldwide, with four teams competing in each host nation. Namibia has been drawn alongside hosts Kazakhstan, Comoros, and Kuwait, with all matches staged under the Kazakhstan Football Federation.

Each team will play two official ‘A’ international matches over two match days. After predetermined opening fixtures, second-round pairings are decided based on initial results or scheduled match-ups. While an overall winner may be determined, the primary focus of the FIFA Series is preparation, development, and international exposure.

Importantly, all matches count towards the FIFA World Rankings, making the tournament a valuable platform for teams seeking to improve their global standing.

“These are not just friendly matches, but a chance for many of these players to experience a different level of competition from what they are used to.

“Yes, there are a few who have played in these conditions and countries before, but there are also those who will be introduced to a different level of football, and that is good for exposure and experience.”

The team also had a chance to chat with several Brave Warriors legends, who encouraged the players before their departure to Asia.

Namibia is set to face Kuwait in their opening match on Wednesday.

“I do not think the players will need any motivation in these matches because they know the importance of winning.

“We are playing a nation like Kuwait for the first time, and we need to prove ourselves as a nation,” Benjamin said.

Recent Results (2025/2026):

Nov 17, 2025: Comoros 4-0 Namibia (Friendly)

Nov 14, 2025: Comoros 1-0 Namibia (Friendly)

Oct 13, 2025: Tunisia 3-0 Namibia (World Cup Qualifier)

Oct 9, 2025: Liberia 3-1 Namibia (World Cup Qualifier)