African Stars, Namibia’s league-and-cup champions, have lost head coach Ronnie Kanalelo just as they prepare for a CAF Champions League second-round clash with Orlando Pirates.
Kanalelo guided the club past Mangasport to reach that tie, then left for struggling South African side Marumo Gallants, where his first assignment is a Premiership match against the same Pirates side.
The timing leaves African Stars without the architect of their recent success heading into one of the biggest matches in their history.
“Marumo Gallants F.C. is pleased to announce the appointment of Filemon Ronny Kananelo as the Club’s new Head Coach,” a club statement read.
“Kananelo brings extensive coaching and playing experience across Southern African football. A former professional goalkeeper, he enjoyed a successful playing career with Mamelodi Sundowns, where he won three league titles and several domestic trophies, before representing Namibia at the international level, earning 53 caps and featuring at the 1998 Africa Cup of Nations.
“As a coach, Kananelo has worked extensively in Namibia and South Africa, including roles with UNAM FC, Black Africa FC, Bucks Buccaneers FC, African Stars FC, Maritzburg United and Bloemfontein Celtic. He also served as part of the Namibia national team technical staff across several major international tournaments, including the 2008, 2019 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.Most recently, Kananelo guided African Stars FC to the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.
“He holds a CAF A Licence and brings a coaching philosophy centred on discipline, tactical intelligence, and player development. He will lead Marumo Gallants for the remainder of the 2026/27 season, starting with the Club’s upcoming Betway Premiership fixture against Orlando Pirates.Marumo Gallants F.C. welcomes Coach Kananelo and looks forward to his contribution as the Club continues to compete and build for the future.”
