Extra-Time drama and netball mastery highlight 2026 Newspaper Cup
Erongo Region lifted the 2026 Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup after a thrilling 2–1 extra-time win over defending champions Kunene in Keetmanshoop.
In a fiercely contested football final, Kunene took the lead through Michael Nghifikepunye in the first half. Erongo, however, fought back, with Hashid Naobeb scoring a crucial late equaliser to force the game into extra time.
With momentum on their side, Erongo capitalised when a Kunene own goal in the second half of extra time secured their comeback and the national title. Naobeb was named Player of the Match for his decisive performance.
“The game was very intense and tough, but we fought until the end,” he said. “Even when we were down, we believed we could come back and win it.”
Hosts //Kharas Region claimed the bronze medal after a 3–1 victory over Omaheke, with Herman Shimwetheleni earning Player of the Match honours.
Earlier in the knockout stages, Kunene advanced to the final after defeating //Kharas 4–3 on penalties following a goalless draw, while Erongo reached the final with a narrow 1–0 win over Omaheke thanks to a goal from Kauvepukua Kauzuu. Kunene had also overcome Hardap 2–1 in the quarter-finals.
Kavango East complete netball hat-trick
In the netball competition, Kavango East continued their dominance by winning a third consecutive title, defeating Khomas 35–28 in the final. Goal attacker Ester Kapinga earned Player of the Match honours for her standout performance.
“I’m very happy. The coaches prepared us well and believed we could win the cup,” Kapinga said.
Khomas reached the final with a 35–22 win over Kavango West, led by captain Hiturepi Golden Kahuikee, who was named Player of the Match. Kavango East had earlier secured their final berth with a 36–25 victory over Ohangwena, with Kapinga again instrumental in attack.
In the quarter-finals, Khomas defeated Kunene 22–11, while Kavango West overcame Erongo 26–18 to progress.
The 2026 edition of the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup once again showcased Namibia’s top emerging talent, with thrilling matches, passionate crowds, and a strong display of regional pride throughout the four-day tournament in the //Kharas Region.
Tournament history
Previous winners of the Namibian Newspaper Cup include:
2001: Omaheke | 2002: Omaheke | 2003: Khomas | 2004: Khomas | 2005: Otjozondjupa | 2006: Hardap | 2007: Oshana | 2009: Omaheke | 2010: Khomas | 2011: Khomas | 2012: Erongo | 2013: Otjozondjupa | 2014: Kavango | 2015: Omusati | 2016: Oshana | 2017: Otjozondjupa | 2018: Omaheke | 2019: //Kharas | 2022: Zambezi | 2023: Kavango West | 2024: Omusati | 2025: Kunene
