Gamondi hails Stars’ vigilance

DAR ES SALAAM: TAIFA Stars Head Coach Miguel Gamondi has praised his players for fighting like “warriors” in their 1-1 draw against Madagascar, saying their spirited second-half display underlined the identity his technical bench is building for Tanzania.

Stars endured a difficult first half at Stade d’Honneur de Meknes, where Madagascar controlled much of the opening period.

However, Tanzania returned from the break with greater intensity, creating several chances as they fought their way back into the contest.

“Really, I’m very proud of this group of players because of how we played, especially in the second half,” Gamondi said in a post-match interview at the stadium. “We played very well, we created chances. To me, the boys fought until the last moment. In the second half, I think we created three or four chances.”

The Argentine coach said he was particularly encouraged by the players’ determination to remain in the game until the final whistle, describing their fighting spirit as one of the most positive aspects of the performance.

“I want to congratulate the players because they played like warriors,” he said.

Gamondi also acknowledged Madagascar’s form, highlighting that they are a good side and should not be underestimated despite Tanzania’s improved display after the interval.

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“Madagascar is a very good team. They played very well and they dominated the space, but they did not create a clear chance,” he said.

Madagascar are ranked 104th in the CAF rankings, while Tanzania are 112th. Although disappointed that Stars failed to collect all three points after their second-half resurgence, Gamondi said the technical bench remained focused on developing a competitive side with a clear identity rather than dwelling on the result.

“I always feel a little bit sad because I think for what we did in the second half, we deserved to win. But we are not here to complain; we are here to play, to build, to create a fair-game morale, and I think it is there,” he said.

“You see, in the other game, we lost the game, but the morale was there. We have created one identity for Tanzania, and that is the most important thing.”

Gamondi also welcomed the opportunity to give several players their first appearances for Stars, saying their involvement would help broaden his options as he continues to rebuild the squad.

“Players like Yona Amos, Nathaniel Chilambo, Domino and Cyprian Kachwele we put four or five players who had never played, and this is very positive,” he said.

The former Yanga and Singida Black Stars coach called for patience from Tanzanians and Stars supporters as the technical bench continues its rebuilding project, stressing that belief will be crucial to achieving the team’s objectives.

“I think we’re building something good. We need to be patient, we need to believe in ourselves because this is the right way we’re building something,” Gamondi said.