CHAN 2024 QUARTERS: Respect, no fear – Stars Coach

DAR ES SALAAM: TAIFA Stars Head Coach, Hemed Suleiman has said that his side will approach Friday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 quarter-final against Morocco with respect but no fear.

He made the comments on Monday during his team’s training session at Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club (DGC) ground.

The quarter-final match between Taifa Stars and Morocco will be staged at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, with kick-off scheduled for 8:00pm.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Coach Suleiman underscored the importance of facing strong opponents in order to become champions, calling it part of the journey for any team with serious ambitions.

“The key thing is preparation and making sure we play our game well. Morocco are a strong and good team, no doubt. But there’s a saying that if you want to be champions, you must beat the best. That’s our slogan,” Suleiman said.

The coach admitted that Morocco’s calibre was not unexpected, noting that from the onset of preparations, the team had anticipated meeting top-tier opposition at some stage of the tournament.

“We have known from the beginning that we could face a team like Morocco. Our group was competitive, but we have done well to reach this stage and we aim to continue that form,” he added.

Taifa Stars have shown steady progression throughout the tournament, scoring five goals in four matches while conceding a goal.

The coach confirmed that recent training sessions have focused on sharpening the attack and capitalising on chances, knowing the stakes are higher in a knockout tie.

“This is a knockout match. When you get a chance, you must take it. We have worked hard on our finishing and offensive movement,” he said.

Coach Suleiman expressed full confidence in his squad, describing it as “capable of competing with anyone at any time.”

He also highlighted the team’s growth on the continental stage, citing their qualification for the upcoming AFCON tournament and solid position in World Cup qualifiers as signs of progress.

“We have gained a lot of experience in African football. We are no longer just participating, we are competing,” he said.

Suleiman was quick to thank Tanzanian supporters for their continued backing, urging them to keep the faith and show up in numbers on Friday evening.

“Since this tournament began, the fans have given us strength. I urge them to continue believing in their team. There is no easy match at this level, whether it’s Morocco or any other side,” he concluded.