SKW clinch back-to-back U21 titles in dramatic fashion

Football
Bank Windhoek U21 tournament now heads to Keetmanshoop for the first time
Brian Munango
Sport Klub Windhoek (SKW) has successfully defended its title at the Bank Windhoek Ramblers Under-21 Football Tournament, overcoming Swallows in a dramatic final that concluded in a penalty shootout after an electrifying 2-2 draw in Windhoek.

The final proved to be an emotional rollercoaster, keeping fans on edge throughout. Both sides were reduced to ten men after red cards were issued in a fiercely contested match. Ultimately, SKW held their nerve in the penalty shootout, securing back-to-back tournament victories and sparking jubilant celebrations among their players and supporters.

SKW coach Lucky Kakuva expressed delight after the final whistle, praising the tournament organisers and sponsors:

“This tournament continues to be a fantastic platform for young talent. I’m proud of our team’s resilience and thankful to Bank Windhoek and Ramblers for making this possible. We’re already looking forward to the 2026 edition.”

With this win, SKW moves closer to making history, as a third consecutive title in next season will see them permanently claim the coveted floating trophy.

Road to the final

In the semi-finals, Swallows edged past tournament hosts Ramblers with a 2-1 victory, while SKW powered through Julinho with an emphatic 4-1 win. The third-place play-off between Julinho and Ramblers also ended in high drama, finishing 1-1 in regular time before Julinho triumphed in the penalty shootout.

The top three teams shared a prize pool of N$22 500, with SKW earning N$10 000, Swallows N$7 500 and Julinho N$5 000. All three also received medals, while the champions lifted the prestigious floating trophy.

Individual honours

Several young stars shone brightly throughout the competition:Top goal scorers: Cruz Uwu-Khaeb (SKW), Shemeul Eduard Kasongo Nkosi (Ramblers)

and Jesco Namiseb (Swallows)

Best goalkeeper:

Sem Moses (SKW)

Best young player:

Chris Eiseb (Swallows)

Held from Wednesday to Saturday, the fourth edition of the tournament featured six teams: Ramblers, Julinho, Swallows, Kasaona, SKW and River Heights. The tournament served as a vibrant platform for emerging footballers, coupled with strong social media engagement and promotional activities.

Taking the game south

As part of its commitment to nationwide development, the tournament now heads to Keetmanshoop for the first time. Eight teams from southern Namibia will compete at Westdene Stadium from Friday to Sunday. Representing towns such as Karasburg, Aroab, Rosh Pinah, Mariental, Koes, Oranjemund and Keetmanshoop, the southern edition promises more high-quality youth football and a chance for fresh talent to shine.

Organised by Ramblers Club in partnership with Bank Windhoek, the tournament continues to grow in stature, offering young players vital experience and exposure while helping shape the future of the country's football.

Kommentaar

Republikein 2025-06-25

Geen kommentaar is op hierdie artikel gelaat nie

Meld asseblief aan om kommentaar te lewer