Erasmus Shalihaxwe
African Stars Football Club were crowned Debmarine Namibia Premier League champions on Saturday night.
Their victory was confirmed last week when their closest rivals, Young African Football Club, dropped points against Mighty Gunners in Otjiwarongo.
Stars won the league for the third consecutive year, taking home a trophy, medals, and N$850,000 in prize money.
Stars dominated the Debmarine Namibia Premier League awards, with centre-back Charles Hambira named player of the season.
Midfielder Mbakondja Tjahikika received the top goal scorer award after scoring 15 goals during the season, and goalkeeper Mervin Kaseturu won the goalkeeper of the season.
Veteran captain Ronald Ketjijere spoke about the tough season. He credited Young African FC for making it a close race for the title.
“Young Africa gave us a tough season; they really gave us a run for our money and gave us sleepless nights. There were times when we thought they were going to drop points, but they kept winning their games and stayed in the race for the title until recently when they dropped points against Mighty Gunners and gave us some breathing space. They were really good this season,” said Ketjijere.
Ketjijere, who is considering retirement, said the team’s management is trying to convince him to keep playing.
He has not made a final decision and plans to meet with management in the coming days.
Top goal scorer Tjahikika reflected on the team’s success.
“It is becoming boring, winning the league three times in a row… but it is a great feeling, a great honour to represent this great club and its supporters… Okaserandu faithful. I am looking forward to bigger challenges in my career. To be honest, winning the league did not come as a surprise because we just picked up from where we left off last season. Personally, I worked extra hard, and with the coaches also pushing me to aim high,” said Tjahikika.
