BURGER PREPARING NAMIBIA FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFYING GAMES
Namibia’s national rugby team is gearing up for a massive challenge as they fight to keep their Rugby World Cup dream alive.
Having appeared at every World Cup since 1999, the Welwitschias now face a tougher path than ever before. After missing out on the regional route, they’ll compete in a final qualification tournament in Dubai. The tournament, which starts this weekend, is a last chance to secure a spot at the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
In Dubai, Namibia will take on Belgium on 8 November, Samoa on 13 November, and Brazil on 18 November. Only the top team from that group will qualify, making every match a must-win.
Head coach and former captain Jacques Burger admits preparation hasn’t been easy. Many of Namibia’s players are amateurs, balancing rugby with full-time jobs, and the squad has had limited time together before heading to Dubai.
Despite that, Burger says the team’s physicality and determination could make the difference. “If we can get our set-pieces right and attack with intent, we can surprise teams,” he said.
Namibia knows what’s at stake: Their place among rugby’s elite. The odds might be stacked against them, but they’ve built their reputation on resilience. Now it’s time to prove it once again in Dubai.
Image credit: The Namibian