Erasmus Shalihaxwe
The Welwitschias, the national rugby team, are determined to regroup and refocus following their loss to Zimbabwe in the Rugby Africa Cup final on Saturday.
The tightly contested match ended 30–28 in favour of Zimbabwe in Kampala, Uganda.
The win secured Zimbabwe a spot at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, marking their first qualification in 34 years.
Namibia, which has featured in every Rugby World Cup since 1999, now risks missing out for the first time since 1996.
However, the team still has a chance to qualify through the intercontinental repechage tournament.
Following the loss, the Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back and fight for a spot at the tournament, which will be hosted in Australia from October to November 2027.
Namibia is scheduled to face the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week in Uganda.
“The fight is not over. Our boys will regroup, refocus, and come back stronger as we take on the UAE this weekend in Uganda. Let’s rally behind them; the journey continues,” said the NRU.
Rugby Afrique, organisers of the Rugby Africa Cup, praised Namibia’s performance and sportsmanship during the tournament.
“Silver with pride. Namibia may not have claimed the crown, but they walk away with heads held high. A powerful campaign, a proud performance and silver medals that tell the story of resilience and heart,” said Rugby Afrique.
