WINDHOEK – African Stars Football Club, the renowned five-time champions of Namibia’s Premier League, on Sunday, took a decisive step by terminating the contract of their head coach, Prince George Koffie, effective immediately. This move came just four months after Koffie assumed his role with the team.

According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA) , the decision to part ways with Koffie was mutual. The club expressed gratitude towards Koffie for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors. Further insights into the dismissal were provided during an interview with the Namibian Press Agency (Nampa), where the club chairman, Salomon Hei, elaborated on the reasons behind the decision.

Hei disclosed that the club had established specific short, medium, and long-term objectives, which they felt were not adequately met by Koffie. He highlighted the team’s recent performance against Eeshoke Chula Chula in the Dr Hage Geingob Cup, where they struggled against a newly promoted team, as a key factor in their decision. Hei noted that such results were not up to the standards expected of a prominent club like African Stars.

Furthermore, Hei pointed out that one of their immediate goals was to qualify for the African Champions League. Despite extensive preparations, including a month-long training camp in Botswana, the team failed to reach the group stages of the tournament. Hei lamented the coach’s inability to instill a unique playing style and identity in the team, which he considered crucial for a club of their stature.

In the wake of Koffie’s departure, Mervin Mbakera, who led the team to their fifth Premier League title last season, will reassume his role as head coach. Hei confirmed that Mbakera’s national duty with the women’s national team had concluded, making him available to take over the reins of the team once again.

This coaching change marks a significant moment for African Stars FC as they aim to retain their position at the pinnacle of Namibian football. The club remains focused on their ambition to win the Debmarine Namibia Premiership title, continuing their legacy as one of the country’s top football teams.