Benjamin questions SA’s overlook of overlooking Namibians

COLLIN Benjamin, the coach of Namibia’s national team, believes that South Africa does not fully appreciate the immense talent available just over its border.

- MATSHELANE MAMABOLO

Speaking after the Brave Warriors’ 1-1 Group H World Cup qualifying draw with Equatorial Guinea at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Monday, Benjamin said he struggles to understand why South African clubs are not actively scouting Namibia for players.

On an afternoon when his captain and Mamelodi Sundowns star, Peter Shalulile, ended his nearly two-year-long goal drought, Benjamin suggested that there could — and perhaps should — be more Namibians playing in the Betway Premiership and its lower leagues. “We brought Peter here and others, and they are doing really well. Maybe it is up to you (South Africans) to say, ‘Let me go back and find another talent.’

“There are players available, and they come at a cheaper price. If you look at the matches these Brave Warriors are playing, it’s proof that we have talent — hungry players who just need a chance,” said the coach, having lavished praise on the ‘patriotic’ Shalulile.