In the much-anticipated final match of the Bank Windhoek Ramblers Under 21 Tournament in Oshakati, which took place on Sunday, 23 June, Alnur Football Academy (FA) emerged victorious. The team showcased its dedication and teamwork and hopes to build on this success in future competitions.
The Bank Windhoek Ramblers Under 21 Soccer Tournament northern edition started on Friday, 21 June, and concluded on Sunday, 23 June 2024, with eight participating teams. Alnur FA secured the championship title after defeating last year's runner-up, A-Class Academy, in a marathon penalty shootout. The match ended goalless, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to score.
This was not the first time the two teams had faced each other in the tournament. They previously played on the opening day of Group B, with Alnur FA winning 2-1. After the tournament, A-Class Academy landed second place but plans to regroup and recharge for next year's tournament as they remain determined to regain their title.
Both teams advanced to the final due to their outstanding group-stage performances. The highly anticipated final match saw both teams fighting for glory. However, neither could find the back of the net during regular time. The game went into a penalty shootout, with Alnur FA and A-Class Academy taking turns attempting to convert their spot kicks. After 16 attempts, Alnur FA emerged victorious, converting 14 penalties, while A-Class Academy missed three.
Bank Windhoek's Far North Regional Manager, Mire Christof, said the Bank believes in youth potential and is committed to fostering community development and supporting youth initiatives. “We see this tournament as an investment for their future as it offers a platform for young players to showcase their talent and be scouted for more opportunities which could land them positions in the national team," she said.
Securing second place in the tournament, A Class Academy's Head coach, Alexander Itamba, said the tournament is excellent for the Oshakati community and further develops the northern region. “It is great to see the support by Bank Windhoek for the youth, which helps them develop and grow in the sport. We accept the results, but we will regroup to return with improvement next time," he said.
Energetic and thrilled captain of Alnur FA, Terence Tshuma, stood tall with smiles as he spoke, holding the trophy and his medal in the other. He expressed his gratitude for being part of the tournament and eventually winning it. “The tournament challenged us throughout all our games. “We reached the final stage where the challenge continued. It was intense, but we pulled through," he said.
Eight teams, Alnur Football Academy, Efidi Football Academy, A Class Football Academy, Okatana Franco United Football Club, Diva Football Academy, Ondangwa Football Academy, We Academy, and Alma Football Academy, competed in the northern edition of the tournament, showcasing their skill and talent in Namibian football.
The northern edition of the Bank Windhoek Ramblers Under 21 Soccer Tournament follows the Windhoek edition hosted at Ramblers from 21 – 25 May 2024.
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