Hikuam Inspires Beauties’ first COSAFA Win
Football
Beauties FC set to challenge two-time champions Sundowns in Group A.
Namibia’s Beauties FC made a resounding statement on Sunday afternoon as they secured their first-ever victory at the CAF Women’s Champions League | COSAFA Qualifiers with a 3-0 triumph over Malawi’s Ntopwa FC in Johannesburg.After suffering a disappointing opening defeat to Zesco Ndola Girls, the FNB Women’s Super League champions responded in style, overturning that scoreline with three unanswered goals at the University of Johannesburg’s AW Muller Stadium.
Midfielder Millicent Felicity Natalie Hikuam was the star of the show, scoring twice in quick succession after the break (47’ and 58’) to give Beauties control of the contest. Twelikondjele Evilyakondjelua Amukoto added a third late on (87’), sealing a memorable win that not only restored confidence but also placed Beauties firmly on the regional football map.
The Namibians dominated possession and chances, restricting their opponents to a single shot on target. It was also a measure of redemption for Beauties, who had struggled for composure in their opening fixture but looked far more assured in this encounter.
Head coach Kati Nambandi praised her side’s resilience and character after the game.
“From the beginning, we were determined to win this match. Our aim was to gain three points and keep ourselves alive in the competition. The players were nervous in the first half, but after speaking to them at half-time, they started to play their football with confidence. We know we have the skills and the talent, and eventually we showed that on the pitch,” she said.
Looking ahead to their final group fixture against two-time champions Mamelodi Sundowns, Nambandi insisted Beauties would not be intimidated.
“We respect Sundowns and their history, but we do not fear them. We came here to compete, not just to participate. We will play our football and take the game to them, even though they are at home,” she added.
The victory not only handed Beauties their first three points of the tournament but also ensured that Group A remains wide open heading into the final round of matches.
Full-time – Group A
Ntopwa FC (Malawi) 0
Beauties FC (Namibia) 3 (Hikuam 47’, 58’; Amukoto 87’)