Gunners crowned Standard Bank Top 8 champions

Military side Mighty Gunners were on Saturday crowned champions of the 2026 Standard Bank Top 8 after securing a thrilling 2-1 victory over Unam at the Independence Stadium.

The final marked a historic occasion, as it was the first time that two government-funded teams contested the competition’s showpiece event. Neutral supporters viewed the encounter as evenly balanced, with both sides producing attractive football throughout the opening stages.

Unam, popularly known as the Clever Boys by their supporters, struck first in the opening 10 minutes of the first half, with Roberto Rugam calmly converting from the penalty spot to hand the university outfit an early lead.

With both teams eager to claim the prestigious trophy for the first time, Mighty Gunners responded with determination and intensity. Their pressure forced Unam into costly errors in their own half, eventually earning Gunners a free-kick just outside the 25-metre area. Midfielder Mutani Kariseb stepped up and curled a superb effort past the Unam wall to restore parity.

The two sides went into the half-time break level at 1-1.

Unam began the second half brightly and looked the more determined side during the opening 15 minutes, dominating possession and keeping their opponents under pressure. However, as the match progressed, Mighty Gunners gradually regained control and capitalised on Unam’s inexperience.

Mighty Gunners coach Katti Nambadi celebrates with his players after winning the Standard Bank Top 8 cup. Photo: Helge Schütz

The decisive moment came in the 80th minute when Unam conceded a corner. Indji Moses rose highest in the penalty area to head home the winner, putting Mighty Gunners ahead for the first time in the match.

Despite late efforts from Unam to find an equaliser, the military outfit held firm and celebrated their first-ever Standard Bank Top 8 title.

Rugam finished as the tournament’s top goalscorer with two goals and received N$10 000 in prize money. Mighty Gunners goalkeeper Beverly Shetukana was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament and also pocketed N$10 000.

Meanwhile, Mighty Gunners midfielder Given Mutuezu was crowned Player of the Tournament and walked away with N$20 000.

For winning the trophy, Mighty Gunners were rewarded with N$600 000 in prize money, while Unam received N$300 000. The losing semifinalists, FC Ongos and Eleven Arrows each received N$100 000. 

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المصدر: The Namibian