Mbaeva dusts himself off

Brave Warriors goalkeeper Maximilian Mbaeva says he has redeemed himself after conceding four goals about two weeks ago.

The four goals Mbaeva conceded almost cost the national team a place in the Africa Cup of Nations, but the team eventually qualified after Guinea Bissau held Mozambique in the other match.

Namibia lost the match 4-1 to Zambia but eventually qualified for the Egypt finals on head-to-head records.

Mbaeva came under fire for the poor display on social media. Many people went to the extent of asking Mbaeva to quit the national team after what was described as a weak performance by the 'keeper.

Mbaeva, who has the backing of coach Ricardo Mannetti, says he got over the terrible match and is looking forward to representing the country at the Afcon tournament in Egypt. “It is not easy being a goalkeeper because you always have to take the blame for the goals you concede. It was not one of my best matches, but I am ready to bounce back and do more for my club and country. It has always been my dream to play in the Africa Cup of Nations and now I believe I have that chance,” Mbaeva says.

The goalkeeper says he aims to work hard to earn the trust of the fans and his teammates.