Awilo’s view on Warriors’ struggling attack

The Brave Warriors are enduring a tough spell, struggling with both creativity and goal-scoring in African competition. The Namibians have only managed to score two goals in their last five matches, while conceding 12, raising concerns about the squad's ability to perform at the international level. One player whose absence has been noticeable from the current setup is Willy "General" Stephanus, the 33-year-old forward who retired from international duty on 12 May 2023, after being overlooked for selection. Stephanus, who plays for Debmarine Premiership defending champions African Stars, has had an impressive run at the club level, leaving many wondering whether his absence has contributed to the national team’s recent woes.The 33-year-old has had a solid international career from 2011 until his last appearance in April 2022 in an Afcon qualifying 1-1 draw against Burundi (away), but has since fallen out of favour. Over the years, he earned 38 caps for the national team, scoring 4 goals. Stephanus’ club career has seen him play in multiple countries, including AC Kajaani (Finland), Lusaka Dynamos (Zambia), Krabi FC (Thailand), and Black Africa FC in Namibia.Moved into a striker role during African Stars’ premier league dominance in 2022-2023 as well as last season, Stephanus has been a revelation, scoring 20 and 16 goals, respectively winning and sharing the golden boot award with Rewaldo Prins. His creativity, vision and goal-scoring ability were instrumental in helping his team retain their title. However, following his disappearance from international football, Namibia’s Brave Warriors have noticeably lacked the flair and ingenuity that Stephanus provided.In a interview with Sport Wrap yesterday, Stephanus addressed the national team's current struggles, pointing out the absence of a creative player who can unlock defences. "Yes, that is something I personally think is the missing piece, that creative player ... the only player that comes to mind that could or can do that is (32-year-old Petrus) Shitembi," Stephanus said. He also highlighted the pressure placed on rising star Prins Tjiueza, suggesting that the young talent is being burdened too soon."Edmar Kamatuka is another player we are sleeping on at this point," Stephanus added, indicating that inclusion of more experienced players could help guide younger talents like Tjiueza and Kamatuka. He emphasized the importance of mentorship in football, recalling his own experience with Shitembi and their connection on the field, which was influenced by the guidance they received from former Brave Warriors forward Heinrich Isaacks.Stephanus expressed that sometimes a veteran's presence, rather than necessarily playing time, can make the difference in developing younger players. "Sometimes we don’t even need the so-called experienced players to play; just their presence and guiding the young ones is all we need," he said.Former Black Africa legend Silvester (Lolo) Goraseb was also approached for comment on the matter, but declined to speak, calling the topic "sensitive."

Awilo’s view on Warriors’ struggling attack

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