Analysts call for bold AFCON strategy

DAR ES SALAAM – FOLLOWING the AFCON 2025 group stage draw held at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Morocco on Monday, analysts have shared their thoughts on Tanzania’s placement in Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia and Uganda.

In separate interviews with the ‘Daily News’, former Simba player Dua Said and ex-Simba star and coach, Abdallah Kibadeni stressed the importance of strategic planning; from squad selection to training camps in ensuring the Taifa Stars success in the tournament.

Kibadeni, speaking on the importance of preparation, noted: “Football isn’t a game of chance.

The teams in our group are manageable, but the key to success lies in thorough preparation.” He also highlighted the vital role local coaches play in motivating players, fostering patriotism and ensuring commitment to the national cause.

“Players must understand the nation’s expectations. With the right guidance and support, we can achieve great things,” Kibadeni said, reflecting on how influential figures like Mzee Nnauye used to visit camps, offering words of encouragement that helped ignite a fierce sense of duty and national pride among the players.

The former Simba star also pointed out that Tanzania’s group is not as daunting as it may appear, provided the government and the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) rally behind the team with the necessary support. “Football is a full-time job now.

If we support the players, as President Samia Suluhu has done, we can approach this group with confidence. The competition isn’t as intimidating as some might think,” he added.

Kibadeni gave Taifa Stars a confident 10 out of 10 chances of advancing, citing Tanzania’s rising stature in African football and the improvements made in the local league.

“I believe in the team. Our league is getting better and African nations are taking notice,” he said. Kibadeni also praised local coaches like Juma Mgunda, suggesting that their deep understanding of the team’s significance would help drive positive results.

“With local coaches in charge, no team in this group is beyond our reach,” he said, referencing Nigeria, once seen as an intimidating opponent.

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Similarly, Dua Said emphasised the need for the Taifa Stars to treat every opponent in Group C with respect, as all three are ranked higher than Tanzania. “We must approach each match with the seriousness they deserve,” Said stated.

Said also stressed that meticulous preparations are key, including assembling the best possible squad and organising high-level friendly matches.

“If we limit ourselves to a one-week camp without proper friendly matches, we’ll be limiting our potential,” he warned.

“However, with thorough preparation, the support of the federation and the government, we will have a good chance.” The group stage draw also revealed other intriguing matchups.

Group A consists of Morocco, Mali, Zambia, and Comoros. Group B features Egypt, South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe.

Group D pits Senegal, DR Congo, Benin and Botswana. Group E includes Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea and Sudan, while Group F has Cote D’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon and Mozambique.

Historically, Egypt has won the most AFCON titles, with seven trophies, followed by Cameroon with five, Ghana with four, and Nigeria and Ivory Coast, each with three.