Stars prepare for title defence

MTC Namibia Premier League (NPL) champions African Stars have begun their preparations for the 2018/19 season.

It was previously announced the league could possibly kickoff in mid-September.

“The players started jogging on Monday and we will continue doing that for the moment. I can also confirm that we have not made any signings yet,” long-serving team manager Lesley Kozonguizi said yesterday.

Stars won the title last season, after accumulating 64 points and winning 19 matches.

The club drew on seven occasions, while losing only four out of 30 matches.

The champions scored 40 goals and conceded 14, with star striker Panduleni Nekundi netting 15 goals. Nekundi is, however, currently struggling with an abdominal muscle injury.

Players like Ratanda Mbazuvara and captain Ronald Ketjijere are expected to be fit, given that they have been training with the national team ahead of the Afcon qualifier against Zambia slated for next month.

Stars' arch-rivals, Black Africa, failed to pip the champions to the post last season and finished on 55 points.

The Mighty Gunners came in third with 54 points, while delivering their best performance ever in the premier league.

Unam FC also had a good campaign, taking fourth spot with 48 points.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa