Jacob Mloyi hits the ground running in Namibia

YOUNG Flying Stars Sports Academy (YFSSA) director Collen Nyambiya has thrown his full backing behind 24-year-old striker Jacob Nduna Mloyi, praising him as a natural finisher with the potential to make a lasting impression in Namibia. Mloyi, a product of the YFSSA system, is rebuilding his career after gaining valuable experience outside Zimbabwe.

The left-footed forward previously featured for Masitaoka FC in the Botswana Premier Soccer League, where he worked under Zimbabwean coach Mandla Mpofu. Now turning out for Okahandja United FC in Namibia’s topflight league, Mloyi has made an encouraging start to his new chapter. He opened his account in only his second match and has already shown flashes of the sharp attacking instincts his academy has long believed in. On his debut against African Stars FC, popularly known as the Bucks Buccaneers, he was denied three times by inspired goalkeeping — a performance that underlined just how close he was to announcing himself in style.

With one goal in two games, the early signs are promising for a striker still finding his rhythm in a new footballing environment. Nyambiya has no doubt the numbers will rise.

“Jacob is a naturally gifted left-footed striker. He is powerful, both in his shooting and in the air. He reminds me a lot of Agent Sawu — that directness, that confidence to take on defenders and unleash shots,” said Nyambiya.

The comparison to former Zimbabwe international Agent Sawu is no small endorsement. Sawu was known for his ferocious finishing and dominance in the air, qualities Nyambiya believes are mirrored in Mloyi’s game. It also reflects the academy director’s deep belief in his former protégé’s potential to blossom into a feared attacker.

Mloyi’s journey has been a steady, determined progression. Having developed at YFSSA — an academy that has produced professional footballers both locally and abroad — he impressed at Bulawayo City before earning a three-year deal with Masitaoka in Botswana. Although his time there came with challenges, the exposure to a professional environment outside Zimbabwe added important layers to his growth.

“Playing outside Zimbabwe matures a player. He has learned to adapt, to compete and to handle pressure. That experience will help him a lot in Namibia,” said Nyambiya.

At 24, Mloyi is entering what many consider the prime years of a striker’s career. Stronger physically, clearer tactically and growing in confidence, he appears well-positioned to elevate his game. To Nyambiya, this move to Okahandja United represents far more than a fresh contract — it is a chance for renewal, redemption and a breakout season.

“He just needs consistency and belief. The goals will come. One in two games is a good start, but I expect more from him. He is hungry, and hunger is important for a striker,” Nyambiya added.

In his eyes, this could be the chapter that finally defines Mloyi’s career.

“So far, so good. Now we are looking forward to more goals,” he said.