NFA eyes local licenced coach

JESSE JACKSON KAURAISAWINDHOEKThe Namibia Football Association (NFA) have their sights set on appointing local coaches for all coaching positions, including that of the Brave Warriors, a source has alleged.Namibia has close to 13 coaches who meet the A-Caf licence or equivalent required for the Brave Warriors top coaching job. Namibian Sun understands that the decision could be motivated by the fact that the association is not in a financial position to hire an international coach.Speculation is rife that the association could also consider making it a part-time position to minimise the cost.The last coach to be employed on a full-time basis, Ricardo Mannetti, cost the NFA N$97 000 per month.This newspaper has also been reliably informed that caretaker coach Bobby Samaria was earning in the range of N$40 000 a month.“My understanding is that the football FA does not have the funds to afford an international coach for the senior team at the moment because they would then have to pay out much more than they paid to Mannetti or Bobby Samaria.“There is also speculation that there are talks to consider someone who is not appointed on a full-time basis to ease the pressure the associations finances,” the source said.The national team has been without a permanent coach since the Fifa normalisation committee refused to extend Ricardo Mannetti's contract, which ended on 31 July 2019.The NFA then appointed Bobby Samaria on an interim basis for close to two years.It was speculated last month that the association had held talks with Italian Roberto Landi.NFA played down the rumour, however, stating that they were only talking to Landi about youth development. Namibia Football Association secretary-general Franco Cosmos said it was a bit too early to speak about who they want given the fact that the coaching positions were only advertised last week.“The positions were only advertised last week and I feel it would be too soon to say who we want or what we can afford.“Everyone is encouraged to apply and the independent vetting individuals will inform us on who they feel can qualify.“With regard to the money issue, we know very well with the coronavirus situation in the country and the financial position of the NFA,” Cosmos said. Potential local candidatesNamibia has many local coaches but only a handful qualify for the position with an A-CAF licence or equivalent qualification. The country has a total of 13 Caf A licence holders but only a few are tipped as favourites to get the top job.Colin Benjamin: Having played in Germany and coached youth teams in Germany, Benjamin comes with top coaching experience and many feel he has the potential to take over the Brave Warriors hot seat. Woody Jacobs: The Orlando Pirates man has been working as an assistant coach and is widely rated as a great technician.Brian Isaacs: The league-winning coach had a stint with the Brave Warriors and speculation is that he could be considered if he applies.Bobby Samaria: A potential permanent appointment is still possible for Bobby Samaria, who is tipped as some of the executive's favourites. Ali Akan: Ali Akan has vast coaching experience and has been widely regarded as someone the current NFA administration likes. Willem Kapukare: Having been with Tisan and a coaching instructor for youth national teams, Kapukare could be a potential candidate, provided he applies.Gerald Gunther: Blue Boys' Gerald Gunther also holds the licence required for the position. He was the coach of the under-20 team and is said to be in a great position to apply. Wallace Doeseb: Rodney 'Wallace' Doeseb also has an A licence which could work in his favour if he applies. Other A Caf licence holders who are not expected to be in the mix but could push their luck include Bernhard Kaanjuka, John Sikerete, Christy Khuruseb, Timo Tjongarero, Agnus Elemu and Lucky Kakuva.NFA technical director Jacqueline Shipanga is the only Namibian woman who has the required licence, but she will be ruled out as a candidate given her task at the association.

NFA eyes local licenced coach

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-03

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NFA eyes local licenced coach

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-03

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