The Athletic Club Football Academy (ACFA) successfully defended both their Under-17 and Under-19 titles for the second consecutive year following an impressive performance at the SKW U17 and U19 Tournament, which concluded last weekend at the SKW Sports Grounds in Olympia. The academy displayed composure and quality throughout the prestigious three-day event, with both championship finals being decided in dramatic penalty shoot-outs.

The tournament brought together some of Namibia's top youth football teams, with players showcasing excellent technical ability, discipline, and determination.

In the Under-17 final, Atlantic Club Football Academy took on Windhoek Gymnasium in a closely contested encounter. Despite both sides creating several scoring opportunities, neither team managed to find the breakthrough, leaving the match goalless after regulation time. Windhoek Gymnasium Assistant Coach Kautura Muundjua watched on as the title was eventually decided in a tense penalty shoot-out, where ACFA held their nerve to edge past their opponents 6-5 and retain the crown.

Reflecting on the victory, ACFA Head Coach Nikie Gawaseb admitted his team had to adapt under difficult circumstances."For the first fifty minutes, we fell into their style of kicking football. Once we put the ball down, slowed the tempo, and found our rhythm, we created good opportunities but just couldn't convert them. I am incredibly happy for these boys, especially since we had to put this squad together at the last minute on Thursday because our main team and head coaches traveled to Sweden."

The excitement continued in the Under-19 final as tournament hosts SKW faced defending champions ACFA in a fast-paced and entertaining contest. Both teams matched each other throughout the match, resulting in a 1-1 draw at full time. Once again, penalties were required to separate the sides, and ACFA remained composed under pressure to win the shoot-out, successfully defending their Under-19 title and completing another memorable tournament double.

Following the final whistle, the captains of both teams reflected on the intense contest, praising the high standard of competition and sportsmanship displayed.

ACFA Captain Sakeus Lukas admitted the final presented unexpected tactical challenges."Our objective was to reach the finals and win the tournament, but we faced a very tough challenge in the last match. We didn't expect them to play a high press because they usually deploy a low block against us, which made it very difficult to break them down."

SKW Captain Tjimbinondjo Musirika commended his team's fighting spirit despite the tough ending."We knew they were a very strong, ball-playing opponent. However, we managed the game well, got our goal, and fought hard to take the match to penalties, despite an unfortunate moment for our goalkeeper."

The successful conclusion of the SKW U17 and U19 Tournament highlighted the continued growth of youth football in Namibia, providing young players with valuable competitive experience as they prepare for the remainder of the season.