CAF interclub race intensifies

SINGIDA: THE race for CAF interclub qualification in the Mainland Premier League is tightening, with Singida Black Stars’ 1-0 win over Namungo at Airtel Stadium in Singida adding further pressure in an already congested battle for the top four.

The victory, secured through Mossi Nduwumwe’s 68th-minute strike from Ande Koffi’s assist, lifted Singida into fourth place on 38 points from 23 matches.

It was Singida Black Stars’ third consecutive win, following a 4-0 victory over Mtibwa Sugar and a 3-1 win against Pamba Jiji.

The run has come at a crucial stage of the season, where every point carries direct implications for continental football.

Nduwumwe’s finish, a low effort past Namungo goalkeeper Abraham Suleiman, was enough to separate the sides in a match where chances were limited and both teams were cautious in approach.

The result, however, carried significance beyond the scoreline, reshaping the standings in the contest for CAF places.

The league’s qualification structure keeps the pressure high. The top two positions secure CAF Champions League football, while third place leads to the CAF Confederation Cup.

A fourth slot is also available through the Federation Cup, with league position becoming relevant depending on who wins the Federation Cup. That overlap has left fourth place highly contested.

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Singida’s rise puts them just ahead of a tightly packed chasing group. JKT Tanzania and TRA United remain in close pursuit after drawing 1-1 at Sheikh Amri Abeid Memorial Stadium in Arusha. JKT Tanzania sit fifth with 36 points, while TRA United are sixth on 34, both after 23 matches.

The draw meant neither side could close the gap on Singida, leaving the top-four race finely balanced with seven games remaining.

TRA United had taken the lead through Joseph Akandwanaho in the 21st minute, finishing a long pass from Issack Mtengwa.

JKT Tanzania responded in the 30th minute when Khamis Salum headed in from David Bryson set piece to restore parity.

At the summit, Young Africans lead with 54 points from 22 matches, followed by Simba on 49 and Azam on 43.

While the title race remains between the top three, attention is increasingly shifting to the congested fight just below them, where fine margins are now shaping the battle for continental qualification.