Namibia boss Collin Benjamin has reacted to his nomination for a top award against two South African coaches, Rulani Mokwena and Morena Ramoreboli.
Earlier this week, COSAFA announced the award nominees for the Men's Coach of the Year accolade, pitting two South African coaches up against the Namibia boss.
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Benjamin made history at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, guiding Namibia to not only their first win in the tournament's history, but also their first-ever spot in the round of 16.
The Brave Warriors looked to be one of the dark horses of AFCON at one stage as they beat giants Tunisia in their first group game before holding Mali to a draw in their final group match to seal a historic spot in the knockout stages.
With their only defeat in the group stage being a 4-0 loss to Bafana Bafana, the Namibians qualified by being one of the best third-placed teams, but would eventually be eliminated by northern neighbours Angola.
With Benjamin having been the youngest manager in the competition and making history, his efforts have since been acknowledged with a huge nomination for being one of the best coaches in the COSAFA region, which comprises 14 nations.
Reacting to his nomination against 2023 African Football League winner Mokwena and Jwaneng Galaxy boss Ramoreboli, the 45-year-old tactician told The Namibian: "I am personally proud to be recognised on the achievements with the team on a regional level and obviously thank the main protagonist in all of this, which are the players for their hard work, dedication and commitment to put Namibia on the map.
"I want to thank the technical team for their tireless efforts with the team. We hope to continue working hard and reaching even greater levels."
COSAFA has confirmed that the winner will be announced at a ceremony held in Durban on 19 April.
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The tactician's next international task will be in June, with two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Liberia and Tunisia scheduled.
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