Stars optimistic despite loss

DAR ES SALAAM: FOLLOWING a disappointing 2-0 defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Taifa Stars Interim Coach Hemed Suleiman remains optimistic about Tanzania’s chance of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.

The match that was held on Tuesday evening at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, saw DRC secure a convincing victory with the two goals from substitute Meshack Elia, the Young Boys forward, leaving home fans disappointed.

In their earlier encounter at Pentecost Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa, DRC, Tanzania suffered a narrow 1-0 loss due to an unfortunate own goal from emerging striker, Clement Mzize while attempting to clear a corner.

The setbacks mean Tanzania must win their final two matches against Ethiopia and Guinea to keep their qualification hopes alive.

After the match, Coach Suleiman, also known as Morocco, emphasized that the team still has a pathway to AFCON, provided they secure victories in their remaining fixtures.

“We lost because our opponents were superior both as a team and individually, but the journey continues. We still have a chance to qualify if we achieve positive results in our last two matches,” he stated.

He acknowledged that while his team created several scoring opportunities, they struggled with finishing, a challenge he is determined to address in training.

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On the other hand, DRC Head Coach, Sebastien Desabre, expressed satisfaction with his team’s qualification, achieved with a perfect record of four wins in Group H.

“We are happy with our qualification; the team worked very hard. Despite our win, we must finish strong in our last two matches,” he noted.

Desabre also praised Taifa Stars, describing them as one of the toughest teams they faced, highlighting the experience of players like Mbwana Samatta.

“Taifa Stars is still one of the best teams in our group, tough due to their experienced players,” he explained.

As it stands in Group H, DRC has already qualified for next year’s AFCON in Morocco, while Guinea sit in second with six points. Tanzania trail with four points, and Ethiopia remain at the bottom with just a point.