Injury rules Aisha Masaka out
DAR ES SALAAM: TWIGA STARS and Brighton & Hove Albion Women forward Aisha Masaka has announced she will miss the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals in Morocco due to a knee injury that has dashed her long-held dream of representing the country on the continental stage.
Masaka, who was expected to play a key role in Tanzania’s WAFCON campaign, shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram statement, expressing both her pain and gratitude in the face of this significant setback.
“It’s difficult to describe in words the pain I am feeling right now,” she wrote.
“But let me simply say, the WAFCON finals were a dream I had wished for, for a long time – a dream to wear my country’s jersey and fight shoulder to shoulder with my teammates for our flag.”
Masaka revealed that the injury to her knee occurred during the final preparations for the tournament, including during the recent CECAFA Women’s Championship.
The severity of the injury has now ruled her out of travelling with the team to Morocco.
“It is an enormous heartbreak for me, not only physically, but even more so mentally and emotionally, because I know this is something I prayed for and worked towards for a long time,” she continued.
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Despite the disappointment, Masaka remained philosophical, drawing strength from her faith:
“I believe everything happens for a reason and God’s will is always greater than our human plans. I will continue to fight to heal and return to the pitch with renewed strength, a fresh heart and even more determination than before.” She also took a moment to thank those who have supported her through this difficult period.
“I sincerely thank the fans, my family, friends and teammates for your prayers, love and encouraging words. Your support gives me the reason to keep standing strong and not give up.”
Masaka expressed her full backing for the Twiga Stars, wishing her teammates success as they embark on a challenging group stage in Morocco.
“I believe my fellow players will continue to give their all and represent our nation with pride, just as they did during the CECAFA tournament. Let’s go Twiga Stars! All Tanzanians are behind you, we wish you all the best and every success in this competition.”
Tanzania, placed in Group C, will open their WAFCON campaign against Mali on Monday, following the tournament’s official start on Saturday.
The Twiga Stars will also face tough group stage fixtures against Ghana and South Africa, both continental powerhouses.
