Namibia’s junior hockey team is gearing up for a historic moment: their debut at the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup City of Santiago 2025. With great excitement and determination, captain Azaylee Philander and coach Cedric Makati shared their thoughts ahead of the tournament.
Setting realistic but bold goals
For Namibia, the World Cup represents both a dream and a challenge. “We would really like to get into the top three of our group,” said captain Azaylee Philander. “We have a very strong group with Germany, India and Ireland, so it would be great if we can finish third and go from there.”
Coach Cedric Makati reiterated her optimism with a focus on immediate goals: “My first expectation is to actually win a match in the group. We know we have a difficult group, but it is achievable.”
Overcoming logistical obstacles
Both captain and coach recognized that team cohesion was a key challenge in the run-up to the event. “Not all teammates have been here for training,” Philander explains. “That is one of our biggest challenges. But once we arrive in Chile and start our practice matches, we will overcome it.”
Makati echoed the same sentiment but remains confident in the team: “We have players in South Africa and Europe. The biggest challenge is to get them to play cohesively as one team. But we will get there.”
Respect for the competition
Namibia finds itself in a difficult group alongside India, Germany and Ireland, but both leaders approach the country with respect and trust.
“To India, Germany and Ireland – we are so honored to play against you,” Philander said. “Namibia will come with our best.” Makati reinforced that feeling: “We know you train hard. We do the same. We are not going to stay in the background. Let’s give each other hard matches and may the best team win.”
Excitement for Chile
This will be Namibia’s first ever appearance in Chile, a milestone for the team. “Playing for your country brings advantages. Coming to Chile will be great. Santiago is the perfect place for a Junior World Cup,” said Philander.
“For most of the girls it is their first major international tournament,” Makati said. “The first match against India will be tough, but we will take it step by step.”
Message to the fans
“To everyone watching – parents, sponsors, family – thank you for all your support. We want to make you proud,” said Philander. “Namibia, thank you for your support,” Makati concluded. “The girls will step up their game. To the fans in Chile, come support us, you will see what Africa can produce.”
The 2025 FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup kicks off in Santiago, Chile, where Namibia will look to make their presence felt on the world stage step by step.
Source: FIH.hockey
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