Namibia captain and key striker Peter Shalulile led his team to an important 1-0 victory over Congo Brazzaville in their opening Group G match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The match was played at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana, because Namibia’s stadiums do not meet the requirements of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Shalulile produced an impressive performance and played 89 minutes before being substituted.
The only goal of the match came early in the second half, in the 47th minute, when dangerous striker Bethuel Muzeu produced a fine header.
Muzeu finished off a well-delivered cross from the left by defender Riaan Hanamub, leaving the Congo goalkeeper with no chance.
Shalulile, who also plays for Tanzanian club Yanga SC, led Namibia’s attack with great discipline and repeatedly posed problems for Congo’s defence before coach Collin Benjamin substituted him in the 89th minute.
The victory gives Namibia a strong start to their bid for a place at AFCON 2027, putting them in a good position in Group G, which also includes heavyweights Cameroon and Comoros.
Cameroon and Comoros will face each other in another Group G match involving another Yanga player, Hussein Zakouane, who represents Comoros.
