Tough Start for Namibian Teams at CAF GIFT Tournament in Zimbabwe

Tough Start for Namibian Teams at CAF GIFT Tournament in Zimbabwe. Two Namibian teams faced difficult openings at the ongoing CAF GIFT tournament in Zimbabwe, with both sides falling to heavy defeats in their first matches. Okakarara Golden Ladies FC and Otjiwarongo Sports Academy’s under 17 girls team opened their campaigns on a challenging note as competition intensified early in the regional youth tournament.

Otjiwarongo Sports Academy endured a tough result in their first outing, suffering a 12–0 loss to Zimbabwe’s Mpopoma Sports Academy. The Zimbabwean side dominated the match from the first whistle, maintaining pressure throughout the encounter and limiting Namibia’s opportunities to settle into the game. Despite the scoreline, the Namibian players continued to push forward and will now regroup as they prepare for their remaining fixtures.

Okakarara Golden Ladies also struggled in their opening match, falling 5–0 to Zambia’s Aquila Stars Women FC. The Zambian team showed strong attacking form and capitalised on their chances, while the Namibian side worked to stay organised under sustained pressure. Okakarara Golden Ladies will now look to adjust and build momentum as the tournament progresses.

The CAF GIFT tournament, which brings together youth and women’s teams from across the region, is designed to create greater competitive exposure and development opportunities for emerging players. For the Namibian teams, the experience offers a learning platform and the chance to measure their progress against strong regional opponents.

With the tournament scheduled to conclude on 18 December 2025, both Namibian sides still have opportunities to improve their standings and gain valuable experience. Coaches and players are expected to reassess strategies as they aim for stronger performances in their upcoming matches.

While the opening results were disappointing, the teams remain in the competition and will look to bounce back as they continue their campaigns in Zimbabwe.