Namibia a worthy host for Region 5 Games football competition
Beautiful Namibia will play host to the Region 5 Games in Windhoek from July 4-13, where the best teams in the region will contest the Under-20 Men’s and Women’s football competitions.
It will be the third major football event in Windhoek within the last year, and a sixth COSAFA event overall, as the country emerges as a valued host of regional tournaments.
Here is a look back at the others they have hosted.
2005 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA CUP
Namibia was one of four nations that hosted first round matches in a format that saw a mini knockout phase including four teams, before teams advanced to the semifinals. Group B was held in Windhoek, with Zimbabwe defeating Botswana in the final. Mauritius, Zambia and South Africa also hosted during the tournament.
2007 COSAFA U17 CHAMPIONSHIPS
Namibia hosted 10 teams for the regional Under-17 championship in 2007 after there had been a five-year hiatus between events. Matches were held at the Sam Nujoma Stadium and Khomasdal Stadium in Katutura, Windhoek. Zimbabwe took the title after defeating South Africa on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
2016 HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA CUP
Windhoek played host to the flagship regional tournament as a sole host for the first time in 2016, with the tournament played in Windhoek. Games were played at the Sam Nujoma Stadium and Independence Stadium, as South Africa defeated Botswana 3-2 in a thrilling final.
2024 AFRICAN SCHOOLS FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP | COSAFA QUALIFIER
Walvis Bay in Namibia hosted the 2024 African Schools Football Championship | COSAFA Qualifier for boys and girls in the Under-15 age-group. It was a great success, with South Africa emerging winners in both tournaments, as many young stars got s first taste of international football.
2025 COSAFA UNDER-17 WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP
As recently as May this year, Windhoek hosted the COSAFA Under-17 Women’s Championship, where nine teams took part in the regional showpiece event. Zambia emerged as the winners after a fantastic tournament that showcased Namibia’s readiness for the Region 5 Games.
