Azam, TZ Prisons exit FA Cup 

DAR ES SALAAM: TWO clubs from the Tanzania Mainland Premier League, Azam FC and Tanzania Prisons, saw their Federation Cup campaigns come to a heartbreaking end in dramatic penalty shootouts during the round of 32 over the weekend.

At the Azam Complex, hosts Azam FC squared off against Mbeya City in a thrilling encounter that ended 1-1 after regular time.

The match proceeded to penalties, where Mbeya City held their composure, converting four spot-kicks to Azam’s two, sending the home side out in a stunning upset.

Meanwhile, at Mabatini Stadium in Pwani, Tanzania Prisons faced Bigman FC in another tense clash. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to a high-pressure shootout.

In a nail-biting conclusion, Bigman FC triumphed 3-2 on penalties, ousting yet another Premier League side from the competition.

Sunday’s results were a sharp reminder of football’s unpredictability, where reputation and financial muscle do not always guarantee success.

While pre-match expectations had heavily favoured the top-tier clubs, the shock exits of Azam FC and Tanzania Prisons highlighted the charm of the cup, where underdogs can rise to the occasion.

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However, not all Premier League sides faced disappointment. Singida BS and KMC FC dispatched their lower-league opponents with ease, underlining their cup aspirations with dominant victori

At CCM Liti Stadium in Singida Region, Singida Black Stars put on an impressive performance, defeating Leo Tena FC 4-0 and showing no signs of mercy. Meanwhile, at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam, KMC FC triumphed 2-0 over Cosmopolitan FC, sealing their place in the next round.

If Sunday’s action is any indication, this year’s Federation Cup promises to be full of twists and turns.

While Singida BS and KMC FC reaffirmed the strength of the Premier League, the surprise exits of Azam FC and Tanzania Prisons serve as a reminder that no team is guaranteed victory and lower-league sides are eager to make their mark.

As the competition progresses, the remaining Premier League teams will be under close scrutiny.

Will they maintain their form, or will more giants fall to the ambitions of the underdogs? The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear, football’s unpredictability continues to deliver surprises.