FC Ongos Suffers Defeat to Mighty Gunners, Jeopardizing Title Hopes

WINDHOEK — In a pivotal match for the Debmarine Namibia Premiership, FC Ongos faced a setback in their title aspirations following a 1-0 defeat to the Otjiwarongo-based military team, Mighty Gunners, at Independence Stadium on Friday night.

According to Namibia Press Agency, this result came as a crucial blow to FC Ongos, who led the league table with 45 points, maintaining a game in hand over their closest rivals before the match. Meanwhile, Mighty Gunners were positioned eighth with 29 points.

The clash, marking the commencement of round 22, was characterized by a physical contest between the two teams, focusing heavily on ball possession but resulting in minimal goal-scoring opportunities, which led to a goalless first half. The second half witnessed a more assertive performance from Mighty Gunners, who dominated the early stages and were awarded a penalty due to a foul in the box by FC Ongos defenders. However, Simon Nekongo failed to capitalize on the opportunity, sending the ball over the bar.

Despite the missed penalty, Mighty Gunners maintained their pressure and eventually broke the deadlock through Stephanus Petrus, securing a vital win away from home. This defeat places FC Ongos in a precarious position, as wins by African Stars or Khomas Nampol in their Saturday fixtures could see them slipping down the league table.

In post-match comments, FC Ongos coach Elemu Chabala, who suffered his first loss since taking over the team from Life Fighter at the second leg’s start, acknowledged the impact of the defeat on their championship hopes. Despite the setback, Chabala emphasized the team’s focus on their upcoming Sunday match. On the other side, Mighty Gunners coach Gerhard Hengari expressed his contentment with the result, highlighting the importance of the victory in improving their league standing and setting sights on their next game with an aim for additional points.

The loss kept FC Ongos at the top of the league with 45 points, while Mighty Gunners climbed to sixth. The Debmarine Namibia Premiership’s round 22 will proceed with games scheduled in Windhoek, Okahandja, Walvis Bay, and Gobabis on Saturday.