The Namibia Football Association (NFA) has taken disciplinary action against two top-tier coaches, Ronny Kanalelo and Paulus Shipanga, following a disturbing incident involving weapons after a recent football match.
The clash occurred at Nau-Aib Stadium in Okahandja, shortly after Bucks Buccaneers edged out Blue Waters FC with a 1-0 victory. Tensions reportedly flared after the match, escalating into a confrontation between the two coaches away from the pitch.
According to report, Coach Shipanga was speaking to the referee when Coach Kanalelo allegedly insulted him, calling him “a weak coach” and “a sore loser.” The verbal disagreement intensified, leading to a physical standoff in the parking area.
Shipanga claims he took a knife in self-defense after being followed by Kanalelo. In response, Kanalelo says he retrieved a firearm from his car only after Shipanga had already pulled a knife. He insists that his original intention was to offer an apology before things escalated.
In light of the serious nature of the altercation, the NFA has suspended both coaches while a formal investigation is underway.
Blue Waters FC has since appointed assistant coach Uerikondjera “Mammie” Kasaona to take charge of the team in an interim capacity during the inquiry. Meanwhile, Bucks Buccaneers have chosen not to suspend Coach Kanalelo, arguing that the confrontation happened off the field and should not warrant a sporting penalty.
Both coaches have issued public apologies, expressing regret for their actions and the negative attention it has brought to Namibian football.
Coach Uerikondjera ‘Mammie’ Kasaona is back on the touchline after making history with the Kunene Region at the Newspaper Cup. She became the first female coach to win the tournament, securing the first-ever title for her region.
