By Michael Uugwanga 

Walvis Bay-based female football team Desert Foxes FC, has shared the challenges it encountered while competing in the NamPort Namibia Football Association (NFA) Erongo Women Regional League this season. Deserts Foxes FC was established in 2020 and are this season’s Namport NFA league champions, after winning 13 matches out of 14 and securing a title with four games still to go before the end of the a season.

They won the title with a whopping 40 points, followed by of second placed side Eleven Champions Queens FC and Super Ladies FC in third, both with 28 points. The league comprised of 10 teams. This week Confidente spoke to Desert Foxes FC’s team manager, Magnus Tjiueza as he shared the success, challenges and the ambition to play in the Women Super League (WSL).

“We had a clear plan to win at least six games in the first round and once that was achieved, we knew it was in our hands. The Season was not as easy as it might see. We had stronger opponents like Java Java Girls, Super Ladies, Omaruru Scorpion Roses and Eleven Champions,” said Tjiueza.

“It is not difficult to work with the players, but it was challenging, to train, coach and mentor a girl child. It is a bit more complex, as one needs to know how and what to what you want to say. “However, we started these project around 2023 and constantly kept on coaching them almost three times per day. Examination times we would give them a home-based training program involving push-ups and set-ups.Our motor were Education and then football,” added Tjiueza.

Last year December it was announced that Namport has injected N$10,5 million into the coffers of the Namibia Football Association (NFA) towards lower football leagues, which includes women regional football, however none of the regional leagues have received any of these funds at this stage. 

The NFA has not yet officially pronounced itself on whether there will be any teams to be promoted to the WSL next season, despite two teams already relegated from the WSL, which are Okahandja FC and Namibia Daughters from Swakopmund.
“We have spend roughly N$60 000 this season, for transport cost, accommodation and feeding. 

We also had individuals that helped us with funding at given times. Our target would be to compete and make sure we remain in the super league, it will not be easy but I believe it is doable. Obviously, we are not that naive not to beef up the squad.