NFA throws Samaria to the dogs

NFA throws Samaria to the dogsFootball bosses decide against appointing him Despite an impressive showing during the team’s last match, the NFA leadership has decided to advertise the country’s top coaching job instead of appointing interim coach Bobby Samaria on a full-time basis. Jesse Jackson Kauraisa







WINDHOEK

The leadership of the Namibia Football Association (NFA) has resolved not to renew Brave Warriors coach Bobby Samaria’s contract, and that of his technical team, sources within the association have revealed.

The interim contracts end today.

Namibian Sun understands that the NFA executive team resolved to advertise several coaching positions in various national team set-ups such as the Brave Warriors and junior football teams.

“I believe that the exco has decided not to extend the contract of Samaria and the others because they want to give a chance for others to apply. Bobby will, however, be allowed to apply,” the source briefly said.

It is also alleged that the only coaches who could still get contract extensions are those in charge of the women’s national team.

NFA secretary-general Franco Cosmos yesterday refused to discuss the matter, saying “an announcement will only be made after the coaches have been informed on the way forward”.

“I do not know what you are talking about and am not aware of anything that you are saying.

“My understanding is that the NFA will pronounce itself on matter soon. It is important to first tell those who are involved in the situation before running to the media,” he said.

No answer

In 2020, the exco decided to keep the coaches and technical staff of the men’s senior national team, the Brave Warriors, until the end of March 2021.

Since Ricardo Mannetti’s departure in 2019, the Brave Warriors have not had a substantial coach.

NFA appointed former national team player Collin Benjamin to take over the team and manage it during the Chan qualifiers that year.

After Benjamin refused to stay on as a temporary coach, NFA then roped in Samaria.

There are talks that the recent failure to help the team qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations - slated for next year in Cameroon - is one of the contributing factors that led to the decision not to appoint him permanently.

Samaria is one of the most successful coaches in Namibian football, having won several league titles and knockout competitions.

Efforts to get hold of Samaria proved futile as his phone went unanswered.