Namibia coach Brian Isaacs has announced his squad for the 2018 COSAFA Women’s Championship as the side prepares for the tournament that will be played in Nelson Mandela Bay from September 12-22.

Isaacs has been unable to call on his overseas stars for the regional showpiece tournament that sees Namibia tackle Zimbabwe, Swaziland and East Africa guest nation Uganda in their Group C.

Only the top team and the best-placed runner-up qualifies for the semifinals.

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, our foreign-based players such as Zenatha Coleman, who just joined a new club and is at pre-season session, will not be joining us in South Africa,” Isaacs confirmed.

Namibia battled in the competition last season when they finished bottom of their pool with victory over Botswana (4-0), but defeats to South Africa (1-3) and Lesotho (1-2).

“Our target is to make sure we progress beyond the group stages and if we accomplish just that, then anything can surely happen,” Isaacs told reporters.

“It will be a 50/50 chance to either make the semi-final or the competitions final, despite the absence of a women’s football league, the girls have been working hard to make sure their fitness level is at par.
Meanwhile, team captain Emma Naris said the side was in high spirits ahead of the competition.

“I feel honoured to be the captain of the Brave Gladiators. This will be my first time leading this group to COSAFA; it’s a huge responsibility, but I know the team is ready and I trust we will do much better than last year,” Naris said.

Aside from the squad chosen, Isaacs has also short-listed Anna Marie Shikusho, Fiola Vliete and Veronica van Wyk as potential replacements if needed.

Namibia squad:
Mellissa Matheus, Lydia Eixas, Anna Shaende, Iina Ndapewa Katuta, Kamunikire Tjituka, Emma Naris, Stacey Naris, Sharon Pieters, Lydiana Nanamus, Lovisa Mulunga, Twelikondjela Amukoto, Elmarie Fredericks, Millicent Hikuam, Beverly Uueziua, Ngonda, Juliana Blou, Shanice Daries, Kylie Van Wyk, Ivone Kooper and Thomalina Adams.