Donalwald Modise: "We want to make history in Namibian women's futsal"
For the first time in its history, Namibia is set to compete in the Women's Futsal Africa Cup of Nations. This is a historic moment for the country, which aims to establish itself on the continental stage against formidable opponents such as Morocco and Cameroon, the headline teams in Group A. Leading the Namibian team is Donalwald Modise, former assistant coach of the men's team during the Futsal Africa Cup of Nations 2024.
Modise now guides his players in this new adventure. In an exclusive interview with CAFOnline.com, he shares his thoughts on the challenges and aspirations of his team ahead of the tournament’s kick-off.
CAFOnline.com: Namibia is in Group A with Morocco and Cameroon. What are your thoughts on this?
Donalwald Modise: Firstly, it’s an honour to be part of such an important tournament. We have been drawn against Morocco and Cameroon. As we all know, few African countries participate in futsal. For us, as Namibia, this will be our first time in the women’s competition. Last year, we participated with the men, and it was a very significant occasion, one we truly appreciated. Regarding my opponents, I have to say that we have watched Morocco closely. They have been playing futsal for seven years, at least in the women's game, so it will be tough against them, but we are working hard. We are preparing. Everything depends on our preparation. On match day, we will see how we approach the game and the tactics.
You were the assistant coach to Ryan Jago during last year’s Men's Futsal Cup of Nations. What did that experience teach you?
The experience was fantastic. It taught me a lot. We played against some of the most well-known futsal countries in the world. And this time, we have another top team in our group, which will make things a bit more difficult. However, preparations are going well and continuously improving.
You recently announced the list of 14 players selected for this Women’s Africa Futsal Cup of Nations. How was the selection process?
The selection process was tough. We held trials for a whole week in February. After that, we reduced the squad to 25 players. From these 25, we narrowed it down to 16, and finally, we selected the final team from those 16.
This Women's Futsal Cup of Nations will also feature familiar faces, such as Curtis Reid, the coach of Tanzania, whom Namibia defeated in the Men's qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations. What are your thoughts on this?
I know I was involved in the match where the Tanzanian coach managed the men's team, both at home and away. It was a tough encounter, so I’m sure he has also prepared his team well. We were the country that played against them last year with the men. They beat us at home, but we got the points away. But I also know he is a well-known futsal coach. He has been in the UK. It’s going to be tough for the other groups as well.
How are your players reacting to this historic first participation in the Women’s Africa Futsal Cup of Nations?
The players are excited. They are working hard. They are open to this new platform, and it’s an opportunity for them to leave the country and see how futsal has evolved in Africa.
How are your preparations going for the tournament?
Donalwald Modise: It’s going well. I can say I’m very impressed with my players. They are working hard, twice a day. They are well taken care of, and I believe by the time the first match comes, we will be ready.
What are the key areas you are focusing on to ensure you are fully prepared?
Firstly, fitness, and then the intensity with which the game must be played.
What are your ambitions for the Women's Africa Futsal Cup of Nations?
Overall, I’d like Namibia to be among the top five in the standings, as this is our first participation. It would be an accomplishment for me, but we are pushing them hard. We want to get out of the group. We want to reach at least the semi-finals.
Beyond athletic performance and with the Women's Africa Futsal Cup of Nations marking a new era for the sport, what is your wish for the development of women’s futsal in Africa?
My wish is that each country has at least one futsal court that meets CAF or FIFA standards, and that development starts from the grassroots, from the lowest levels to the highest.