Mannetti confident of Namibia surprise at Nations Cup

Namibia coach Ricardo Mannetti says his side is a well-oiled machine heading into their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations opener against Morocco on Sunday.

The Brave Warriors have enjoyed a smooth build-up to the tournament in Dubai, which included a 1-0 victory over Ghana, and although they are considered the minnows in a pool that also includes Ivory Coast and South Africa.

“Everyone understands their role in the team, in how we can play and where we want to be,” Mannetti said. “The selection of the final 23 players says it all in terms of tactical harmony.

“We have not beaten Morocco in about six games now and we have a lot of hope because of our preparations. It’s a once off match and it’s will be tricky, and different and a draw or victory against Morocco will be key.”

Mannetti added that his side are primed to handle the weather conditions, with the temperatures set to hit close to 40 degrees Celsius.

“During the run this morning, the guys said they can handle this weather, which is good because we play in the afternoon on Sunday and compared to night temperatures of 33 degrees in Dubai, they can surely handle it.

“The team is poised to improve on their latest heroics and that can only be good for us,” Mannetti said.