Mini leagues mooted for first division

Discussions are afoot to divide the country's non-starting three first division streams of 12 teams each into mini leagues, where each stream will have two groups of six sides, with the winners battling it out for premier league promotion.

Sources say the Namibia Premier League (NPL) and the Namibia Football Association (NFA) are discussing these plans, which will help the first division steams to conclude before the 2018 World Cup kicks off in Russia on 14 June.

NPL league administrator Joshua

//Hoebeb did not deny that such plans have been discussed, but maintained they were still at a premature stage.

“Well it is true that these plans were discussed, but the discussions have not been concluded yet. However, I do believe that it is logical given the budget that is there and the time that remains before the World Cup starts. “It will be okay if teams from the coast and areas nearby can actually be in one mini league to avoid heavy travelling costs from town to town,” Hoebeb said.

First division clubs are allegedly threatening to refuse to play in such a format.

“Those are also just rumours being circulated because these things have not even been discussed at club level yet. Some people are always trying to stand in the way of progress, but they do not realise the harm it causes to football,” Hoebeb added.

The regional first division leagues include the Southern Stream First Division, Northern West Stream First Division and the North East First Division.

The start of the first division streams has been delayed due to a lack of sponsorship.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa