Quivers FC were crowned the champions of the Harders Cup at Lüderitz over the weekend.
After a four-year hiatus, local fans and players were eager to celebrate the comeback of the tournament, considered one of the sporting highlights in the region.
The tournament kicked off on Friday morning with teams showcasing their skills in hopes of claiming the coveted trophy.
Tim Ekandjo, the founder and organiser of the Harders Cup, on Sunday said they are “extremely happy with the way the event concluded”.
“The quality of soccer displayed by all the teams was very good and we hope the //Kharas region produces players of national team quality very soon,” he said.
According to Ekandjo, Quivers FC “truly deserved” the win.
“And well done to Spiders FC for being runner-ups,” he said.
Ekandjo thanked platinum sponsor Standard Bank Namibia and gold sponsor Namibia Diamond Trading Company, as well as the other sponsors whose contributions made this event possible.
He said the event’s success is measured by the platform it provided.
“To give our players an opportunity to shine and bring our people together joyfully, that is what they will remember for the rest of their lives.”
Ekandjo further thanked the participating teams, match officials, the Kharas league, fans and artists for “what will go down in history as a weekend that we will all remember with love”.
Coaches also praised the tournament.
Youngsters FC coach Denzil Visagie on Sunday said the tournament was well organised.
“The competition was healthy and one can only take positive things away from the tournament,” he said.
In addition to the financial rewards, players expressed their ambitions for greater opportunities, with many hoping to attract attention from scouts and football academies.
On Sunday, event promoter Johannes Hailulu said he hopes the tournament will return next year.
“I hope this becomes an annual event, as this year’s tournament was extremely successful and attracted a lot of people to Lüderitz.”
Quivers FC were crowned the champions after a 4-2 victory against Noordoewer’s Spiders FC. Mountain Rangers FC took third place, while Lüderitz’s Youngsters FC came fourth.
Youngsters FC’s Geanu McMaster won the player of the tournament award, walking away with N$20 000, while Quivers FC’s Johannes Meyer won the golden boot trophy award, also walking away with N$20 000.
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