Stars Coach eyes improved attack

DAR ES SALAAM: TAIFA Stars head coach Hemed Suleiman has urged his players to be more clinical in front of goal, despite registering two victories in the pre-CHAN warm-up tournament against Uganda and Senegal.

Tanzania secured a 1–0 victory over Uganda in their opening match last week, and then followed up with a 2–1 win against Senegal on Sunday, in a three-nation mini-tournament held as preparation for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Uganda defeated Senegal 2–1 in the other fixture. All matches were played at Karatu Stadium in Arusha.

Coach Suleiman noted that he is pleased with the results but expressed concern over his team’s wastefulness in attack.

“We are creating many chances, but we are not using them effectively,” he said. “We need to improve our sharpness in the final third so that every opportunity leads to a goal. That’s something we will work on before CHAN begins.”

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Reflecting on the Senegal game, the Taifa Stars boss acknowledged a slow start but was pleased with the team’s overall response.

“We had a slow start in the first 15 minutes, but the boys grew into the game, pressed Senegal well and created several chances. Unfortunately, we couldn’t convert those opportunities in the first half. However, we maintained the pressure after the break and were finally able to find the back of the net.”

He also pointed out challenges in concentration and dealing with Senegal’s physical presence.

“Senegal players were taller and stronger, but we adjusted well. Concentration levels still need improvement, as some players were switching off at times,” he added.

Despite those concerns, Suleiman said he was encouraged by the overall performance and attitude of his squad as they prepare to face Burkina Faso in their CHAN opener on Saturday.

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“We will travel to Dar es Salaam to resume camp and we’ll use the remaining time to fine-tune a few areas, particularly our attacking play. Every opportunity must count,” he added.

Senegal coach Souleymane Diallo, meanwhile, chose to focus on the positives after two losses, saying: “We came to this tournament to observe and I have seen what my players are capable of. I am proud of them. Now we will work on the details before the tournament begins.”