Samia rewards Stars after opening win

DAR ES SALAAM: TAIFA Stars’ players and technical bench pocketed 60m/- following their impressive 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Saturday at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

In recognition of the team’s outstanding performance, President Samia awarded 20m/-, which was presented in the changing room by the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Palamagamba Kabudi, immediately after the match.

The Minister added another 20m/- to the reward, while Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila, also contributed 20m/-, collectively totalling 60m/-.

Minister Kabudi commended the players for their excellent effort and expressed gratitude for President Samia’s pivotal role in hosting the tournament and supporting the national team.

“First and foremost, we thank God for this victory,” Kabudi stated.

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“We also commend President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose commitment has been central to our success, from setting aside funds for preparations to ensuring the availability of worldclass infrastructure.”

He underscored that Saturday’s win not only showcased Tanzania’s capabilities on the pitch but also affirmed its status as a credible host for major continental events.

“The entire world has now seen what Tanzania can do in organisation, sporting excellence and delivering quality facilities. When Tanzania commits, Tanzania succeeds,” he added.

The triumph against Burkina Faso was a strong start to Taifa Stars’ CHAN campaign, with both goals scored in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila expressed immense pride in the team’s performance during his address in the changing room.

“This is more than just a football match; it’s a statement. Our players have lifted the national spirit, and we are all behind them as they push forward in this competition,” Chalamila remarked.

Kabudi reiterated the team’s ambition to reach the final, noting that their opening performance has inspired the nation.

“Let this win serve as motivation not only to our players but also to our fellow co-hosts, Kenya and Uganda. We are in this together, and tonight, Tanzania has shown the way,” he concluded.

He also extended his congratulations to the technical bench for their leadership and discipline in preparing the team.