The Namibia women’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 excitement and determination running high, captain Azaylee Philander and coach Cedric Makati shared their thoughts ahead of the tournament.
Setting realistic but bold targets
For Namibia, the World Cup represents both a dream and a challenge. “We would very much like to come top three in our pool,” said captain Azaylee Philander. “We have a very strong pool with Germany, India and Ireland, so it would be great if we can come third and then take it from there.”
Coach Cedric Makati echoed her optimism with a focus on immediate goals: “My first expectation is to actually win a game in the pool section. We know we have a tough pool, but it’s doable.”
Overcoming logistical hurdles
Both captain and coach acknowledged that team cohesion has been a key challenge in the lead-up to the event. “Not all of the teammates have been here at training,” Philander explained. “That’s one of our main challenges. But once we get to Chile and start our practice games, we’ll 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 making them play in cohesion as one team. But we will get there.”
Respecting the competition
Namibia finds itself in a tough group alongside India, Germany, and Ireland, but both leaders are approaching it with respect and confidence.
“To India, Germany, and Ireland — we are so honoured to be playing against you,” said Philander. “Namibia is coming with our best.” Makati reinforced that sentiment: “We know you are training hard. We are doing the same. We are not going to stand back. Let’s give each other hard games and may the best team win.”
Excitement for Chile
This will be Namibia’s first-ever appearance in Chile, a milestone moment for the team. “Playing for your country comes with perks. Coming to Chile will be amazing. Santiago is the perfect place for a Junior World Cup,” said Philander.
“For most of the girls, it’s their first big international tournament,” added Makati. “The first game against India will be tough, but we’ll take it stride by stride.”
Message to the fans
“To everyone watching — parents, sponsors, family — thank you for all your support. We wish to make you proud,” said Philander. “Namibia, thank you for your support,” Makati concluded. “The girls will step up their game. For the fans in Chile, come support us, you’ll see what Africa can produce.”
The FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025 begins in Santiago, Chile, where Namibia will look to make their presence felt on the global stage, one stride at a time.
Source: FIH.hockey
