Prior to the first whistle blown, the World Cup Excitement was already ignited, as loyal fans preselected their favourite teams from many years ago. While, others seem to team-hop due to the inconsistency of trusted players like Messi, and some aren’t the slightest bit interested in soccer, and that too is alright.
Photo: Nela Shikemeni
Perhaps, it could be the neighbours’ resounding reassuring roar that lures you back into the living room after having barged out because of sheer frustration, until Messi finally scored his first world cup goal and you swiftly make your way back to your seat. Or it could be the optimistic vendor outside the Portuguese Mini Market trying to meet his daily flag sale targets, persuading shoppers to purchase his flags as they make their way out of the shop.
Photo: Nela Shikemeni
However, you’d rather advise him to offer discounted rates on the German or Argentinian flags, as the teams are no longer in the running.
Maybe, it is the guy you met in a taxi mumbling about how heart-breaking the Soccer World Cup has been thus far, while he simultaneously comforts himself with a Windhoek Lager. But then, it is the rebranding of shebeens/ bars that never cease to amaze the business world with fascinating names to draw in more clients.
Photo: Manni Goldbeck
It’s definitely the ‘no shoes, no grass and only the pure pleasure of soccer’ that wins this Soccer World Cup Fever. – It is a norm in northern Namibia, as you journey from Etosha Safari Camp close to the King Nehale Conservancy, which is soon to be home to a new Gondwana Collection lodge.
Photo: Manni Goldbeck
Then again, it is where late afternoons ring in infectious joyful noise with a carnival of colour filling the open fields adorned with a backdrop of majestic Makalani Palms, that signal a match is underway.
Photo: Prostudio
The soccer balls here are uniquely crafted, from old school socks to old clothes pieced together with strings, ropes or whatever materials the boys can get their hands on. But, the boys are often eager to trade in their ‘vintage’ soccer balls for the more appealing ones when an offer is presented by a vintage soccer ball collector.
Photo: Nela Shikemeni
These village style soccer matches even embrace hints of the Neymar dive performed in pursuit of a free kick and a biased referee. More so, soccer is what these boys love as it keeps them going, with a hope to someday becoming the next Lingard or Mbappé.
Photo: Nela Shikemeni
The Soccer World Cup is a great excuse for friends and families to spend time together, and it is not too late to get into the festivities with quirky outfits or items. So, here are a few places to get your essential items:
- Crazy Store | Call: 061 304 360
- Game | Call: 061 247 440
- Metro Hyper | Call: 061 254 141
- China Town Windhoek
- Supermarkets and clothing department stores also sell unique soccer items, have a look there too.
Certainly with all the unique celebrations, it feels like the Soccer World Cup is hosted in Namibia and the Brave Warriors have made the Quarter Finals. – Dreams do come true and may the best team win!
Photo: Prostudio
What are some other Soccer World Cup Fever moments in Namibia? We would love to see how you celebrate during the world cup, share your photos in the comment section below.
Author – I’m Nela, from Windhoek Namibia but born in a small village called Omatunda in northern Namibia. I am passionate about writing, research and photography, as it helps me gain knowledge about people and my country.
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