Standard Bank Top Cup finalist confirmed
University of Namibia FC and Mighty Gunners FC will battle for supreme honours in the final of the Standard Bank Top 8 Cup after successful campaigns so far.
The two teams advanced to the final of the competition following heroic performances over two separate weekends.
The university side booked their place in the final after beating Ongos FC 1-0 in the semi-final played in Outjo over the weekend.
Shaun Rugam scored the only goal of the match as the two teams squared off in an epic semi-final clash.
Unam coach Robert Nauseb praised his team for their victory against a strong Ongos FC side.
“I have been impressed with the boys during this competition because they have proven to be solid and disciplined throughout the tournament.
“I do not think anyone would have given us a chance to reach the final, but we are there now.
“We are not going to be complacent, but will put up a good fight in the final,” Nauseb said.
Ongos FC received N$100,000 for reaching the semi-finals, but their journey was cut short by a determined Unam side.
Ongos FC coach Ronnie Kanalelo expressed disappointment with the result as his team bowed out at the hands of his former national teammate, Robert Nauseb.
“I think we have to congratulate the winning team for making it to the final.
“It was not our day and we could have done better, but that is the game of football.
“The team has tried, but that is unfortunately the end of the road for us in this competition,” Kanalelo said.
In the other Top 8 Cup semi-final, Mighty Gunners FC defeated Eleven Arrows FC to cement their place in the final of the competition.
Arrows, who had their tails up after eliminating league champions African Stars FC, met a fierce and formidable Gunners side.
The “Men in Uniform” found inspiration through a goal by Muyeka Mashiku to confirm their spot in the final.
The competition, which began with African Stars FC, Eeshoke Chula Chula FC, Blue Waters FC, KK Palace FC, Eleven Arrows FC, Mighty Gunners FC, University of Namibia FC and Ongos FC, was first played in Swakopmund a week ago before heading to Outjo.
Standard Bank Namibia has confirmed total sponsorship of N$2.5 million, underlining its commitment to football development in the country.
The tournament winners will receive N$600,000, while the runners-up will take home N$300,000. Losing semi-finalists will each earn N$100,000, and all participating teams will receive a N$50,000 preparation grant.
Individual awards will also be presented, including Player of the Match for each game, as well as Player of the Tournament, Top Goalscorer and Best Goalkeeper.
