KMKM confident ahead of second leg against Azam

DAR ES SALAAM: KMKM Head Coach Hababuu Ali has expressed confidence and determination as his side prepare for the decisive CAF Confederation Cup return leg against Azam FC, despite trailing by two goals from the first leg.

“I cannot say we are going to turn the tables in the return leg, but we will fight to the best of our ability and see what happens and only then will we know our fate this season. Every player must give their all on the pitch, remain focused and adapt to the challenges they face,” said Ali.

Coach Ali emphasised that football’s unpredictability demands discipline, teamwork and belief, qualities he hopes will guide KMKM in the crucial fixture.

“Football is unpredictable, and while we cannot guarantee the outcome, our commitment and hard work will define how far we go and we will approach the match with discipline, unity and a strong belief in our collective strength,” he explained.

He further highlighted his team’s ongoing efforts to build balance and stability on the field.

“We will continue to fight with the goal of improving all key areas of the team, with our main focus being to create overall squad balance — both in possession and without the ball,” added Ali.

The optimism from KMKM’s camp comes after Azam FC kicked off their CAF Confederation Cup second-round campaign in emphatic fashion, securing a 2–0 victory over the Zanzibar side in the first-leg encounter played on Friday, October 18, at the New Amaan Complex Stadium.

The result places Azam FC in a commanding position as they look to secure qualification to the group stage of Africa’s prestigious secondtier club competition — a feat the Tanzanian giants have not achieved in several years.

Azam’s goalkeeper, Aishi Manula, echoed the team’s focused mindset despite holding a two-goal cushion heading into the return leg in Dar es Salaam.

“We know that having a two-goal advantage gives us some comfort, but it does not mean the job is done,” Manula stated. “Every match is a new challenge, and we must approach it with full concentration and determination,” he said.

He stressed the importance of teamwork and composure on the pitch. “As players, we are aware that anything can happen during the game, so we cannot afford to be complacent. We must continue to work together, communicate effectively and maintain our discipline throughout,” he explained.

Having recently joined the squad, Manula expressed his enthusiasm to contribute to the team’s success.

“My experience as a player has taught me that every opportunity counts. I’m eager to help the team progress to the group stages and achieve our objectives,” he noted.

Manula also took a moment to appreciate the fans’ unwavering support, describing it as a vital source of motivation.

“The support from our fans drives us to perform at our best. Every player in the squad understands their responsibility, and we are united in our ambition to make our supporters proud — both domestically and in continental competitions,” he concluded.

On his side, Azam Assistant Coach, Kassim Liogope said the team is focused on making history by advancing to the group stage.

“We know the type of the team we are facing and have studied their performance in the previous match. Tomorrow (today)’s game will be different and extremely important. This is an opportunity to write a new chapter in Tanzanian football,” Liogope said