In brief
Namibia’s 22‑player squad for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers includes a mix of seasoned internationals and fresh talent. Head coach Collin Benjamin highlighted the blend, while the sidelined attacking midfielder Petrus Shitembi misses the side due to injury. The team will play Cameroon’s first leg in Douala on November 12 and return host match in Botswana on November 16, with Namibia currently third in Group G.
Namibia announced a 22‑player squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Cameroon, with the team traveling to Douala on November 12 and hosting in Botswana on November 16.
Squad Selection and Strategy
According to a report from Xinhua, Namibian head coach Collin Benjamin expressed that the group comprises experienced internationals who will anchor the squad as younger players seize their opportunity. He noted that veterans such as Deon Hotto and Riaan Hanamub are expected to bring stability and extensive international experience to the side.
Benjamin also pointed out that the selection deliberately balances seasoned talent with emerging prospects. The mix, he said, will allow the team to maintain consistency on the field while diversifying its attacking options, a factor he believes crucial as Namibia seeks to close the gap with Cameroon who currently leads Group G.
One notable omission from the squad is attacking midfielder Petrus Shitembi, who sustained an injury while playing for his club. The injured midfielder remains sidelined, and Benjamin emphasized that the team will shift to an alternate lineup that still retains offensive depth.
Namibia’s standing in Group G is third, holding three points from two matches, one point behind host nation Cameroon. Comoros sits in second place, while Congo occupies the bottom spot in the group table per the Xinhua source.
With the fixture dates set, Namibia will depart for Douala on November 12 to counter Cameroon’s offensive prowess in the first leg. The return match on November 16 will be hosted in Botswana, providing the home side a strategic advantage. Coach Benjamin’s emphasis on blending experience with youth suggests a forward‑thinking approach as the team seeks a breakthrough in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
