Sundowns legend Kanalelo earns Namibia’s Buccaneers job

Mamelodi Sundowns legend Ronnie Kanalelo has earned a permanent coaching job for Namibia’s top-flight league outfit Bucks Buccaneers FC.

The former Sundowns goalkeeper joined Namibia’s Debmarine Premiership side last season in a caretaker capacity.

In a statement, Buccaneers confirmed that the former Brave Warriors’ number one impressed during his interim tenure.

“The Bucks Buccaneers are pleased to announce the extension of head coach Ronnie Kanalelo’s contract for an additional two years,” the statement reads.

“Since taking over the reins midway through last season, coach Kanalelo has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic insight, steering the team from relegation danger and guiding them to a respectable finish. His dedication, tactical acumen and commitment to develop the team have garnered widespread praise from players, staff, and supporters alike.”

Buccaneers’ Chairperson, Charles Naruseb, further explained why his Board retained the services of the PSL legend, citing his leadership qualities as being his biggest asset.

“Ronnie understands our vision and the project we are building. His ability to inspire and improve the team makes him the right candidate for this role, and we are confident in his capacity to lead Bucks Buccaneers to the future,” Naruseb told the club’s media.

The former Brave Warriors keeper steered Buccaneers out of the relegation zone to finish in 10th place on the log table, 22 points behind champions Africa Stars.

The 53-year-old Kanalelo is a legend for Sundowns after winning the PSL in South Africa in the late 1990s. He also represented Namibia at the 1998 AFCON finals in Burkina Faso.