ZENATHA GOIEMAN COLEMAN CONTEMPLATES RETIREMENT AS BRAVE GLADIATORS SQUAD OMISSION SPARKS DEBATE

Namibia's Brave Gladiators have been shaken by the omission of their captain, Zenatha Goieman Coleman, from the squad set to face Eswatini in the upcoming 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The 29-year-old forward, widely regarded as one of Namibia's most skilled footballers, took to social media to express her disappointment and hinted at the possibility of retiring from international football.

"I think it's time to retire now," Coleman posted on her social media, following the announcement of a 21-player squad by coach Woody Jacobs. The exclusion of the experienced international player has raised questions and sparked heated debates within the local football community.

Coleman has been a cornerstone of the Brave Gladiators' success for years, representing Namibia on the global stage and making significant contributions to the team’s performance. Her omission has led many to speculate on the reasons behind it, with some expressing frustration over what they perceive as a lack of respect for her contributions.


The Role of Jealousy and Rivalries in Namibian Football

Several fans and commentators have pointed to the issue of jealousy and internal rivalries within the local football scene as a potential factor in Coleman’s exclusion. One individual noted, "Our people must stop this jealousy... Coleman is an international player and her skills are what we need for the next level move." This sentiment highlights the challenges many players face when competing against established stars like Coleman, with some local players potentially feeling overshadowed.

The harsh reality of jealousy among local football players is an ongoing issue in many countries, but it has been particularly noticeable in Namibia. The exclusion of a player of Coleman’s caliber has raised concerns about how personal animosities can negatively impact the progress of the national team. "Coleman has worked very hard to get where she is, and if there’s anything we can do for her, it’s using her skills to grow our country," one fan wrote. The message here is clear: Coleman deserves the opportunity to represent her country, not just because of her talent, but because of the hard work and dedication she has put in over the years.


A Case for Change or A Missed Opportunity?

On the other hand, some believe that coach Jacobs’ decision to leave Coleman out could be a strategic move to test the other players in the squad. "Sometimes, local players are intimidated by players like Coleman," one commentator pointed out. "They want to see what these ladies can do without hiding behind Coleman." While it’s true that Coleman’s presence in the starting lineup has been a guarantee for many years, there is also value in allowing emerging players to step up and prove themselves.

Others have welcomed the decision as an opportunity for the team to evolve. "We need to start a national strike for things like this," another fan asserted. "You don't leave your best player out unless due to medical or an agreement." This viewpoint emphasizes that the focus should be on what is best for the team, rather than clinging to past successes.


Why Was She Omitted?

At the core of the debate lies the question of why Coleman was omitted from the squad in the first place. Is it a temporary decision, or does it mark the end of her international career? Some fans have called for an explanation from coach Woody Jacobs, questioning whether there was any prior discussion with Coleman regarding her exclusion. "The coach must have a good excuse," one commenter remarked, reflecting the frustration felt by many. 

While some speculate personal reasons behind the decision, it is important to recognize the broader issue at play — the ongoing challenge of balancing established players with emerging talent. In the case of Coleman, this is not the first time she has faced adversity, and some fans feel that her contributions have not always been fully acknowledged by the local football authorities.


What Does the Future Hold?

For now, the question of whether Zenatha Goieman Coleman will retire or return to the Brave Gladiators remains unanswered. What is clear, however, is that her potential retirement will leave a significant gap in Namibian women’s football. As one commenter aptly put it, "Zenatha is the best female player we have," and her leadership and skill have been a crucial part of the team’s success.

As for coach Woody Jacobs, his decision to leave Coleman out of the squad will continue to be scrutinized. While some argue that it is a necessary move to allow others to step up, others demand an explanation for the omission of a player who has been so integral to the team's success.

In the end, the future of Namibian football — particularly the Brave Gladiators — will depend on how the team navigates this internal conflict. Will they rise above personal rivalries and jealousy to build a stronger, more united squad? Or will the exclusion of a key player like Coleman continue to cast a shadow over the team’s progress? Only time will tell.

Location: Windhoek, Namibia

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