Bantam: Namibia’s bright spark

When locally based Brave Warriors tackle Mozambique in an International Friendly on Wednesday afternoon one man is sure to have the crowd on their feet with his sublime touches.

That man is 25-year-old Grünau-born Bryan Bantam.

The Black Africa midfield sensation has improved in leaps and bounds since the time when he joined the University of Namibia’s football club, Pupkewitz UNAM, as a scrawny yet incredibly talented player back in 2004.

To say Bantam has matured like a fine wine would be right as his tremendous skill with the ball has seen him tear many defences apart.

What especially impresses football fans, though, is the player’s awesome first touch.

“My father used to make me play with a ball made from an orange sack which he tied to a string so that I could control the ball easily,” Bantam said, explaining his mastery of the ball.

His father’s persistence has thus paid dividends since the player is now a regular in the national team set-up.

But Bantam, who only made his Brave Warriors debut last year, admits he thought his chance would never come.

“After being seemingly ignored, I thought it was all over for me,” he said.

Injuries may have played a big part in Bantam not making the Brave Warriors team but it is now evident that the Black Africa ace is one of the players on whom Namibia’s international football future will depend upon.

An indication of his rise is clearly visibly by the number of nicknames the player has already picked up.

The name ‘Brigo’ is well known among his football peers while this reporter has heard fans referring to him as BBM - Bryan Bantam, the Maestro.

Some have also dubbed him ‘The Brain’ for his extraordinary reading of the game and his eye for picking out a great pass.

Bantam, though, is humbled by all the attention as he says he’s only delighted to do his part for his club and the country.

“It is a privilege to play for your country and I’m happy I can do that,” he said.
In another display of humbleness Bantam was also quick to shower the praise one of his teammates, whom he says have impressed him greatly.

“Denzil (Haoseb, a teammate at Black Africa and Brave Warriors) is notable because he has all the attributes of a good holding midfielder. He’s strong on the ball, packs a powerful shot and can attack and defend in equal measure,” he enthused.

The attacking midfielder concluded by saying that he is still hopeful of playing outside of Namibia, with a view of playing professional football.

With his continued levelheadedness and aptitude, that is something that shouldn’t be out of the reach for this talented rising star.

The Brave Warriors play Mozambique at the Independence Stadium tomorrow at 15:00 with tickets costing N$20.

click to enlarge STAR ATTRACTION: Bryan Bantam in training for the Brave Warriors © Hector Mawonga