African Stars have parted company with head coach Gerald Guther less than a month after his appointment, following only two official matches in charge.

The Namibian club took the decision after an opening run that was considered inadequate, with Guther paying the price for a poor start to the season. The team’s difficulties were highlighted by their unsuccessful two-legged preliminary-round tie against Orlando Pirates in CAF inter-club competition.

African Stars suffered heavy defeats in both matches, bringing their continental ambitions to an early end. The results prompted the club’s management to act quickly in an attempt to produce an immediate change in fortunes.

The club is now working to appoint a successor who can steady the team and revive its campaign in the national championship. Guther’s brief spell in charge underlines the intense pressure placed on coaches after early setbacks in African football.