Morris impressed with win, but warns: ‘‘No time to celebrate’’

DAWA: SERENGETI Boys Head Coach Aggrey Morris expressed his satisfaction with the team’s dominant 6–0 victory over Sudan in the CECAFA Zone AFCON U-17 Qualifiers in Ethiopia, but quickly reminded his players that their journey is far from over.

Morris commended his players after the match at Dawa International Stadium in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, highlighting their discipline, tactical awareness and adherence to the game plan, all of which he credited for their comprehensive victory.

“I am impressed with the performance. The boys followed instructions very well and created a lot of goal-scoring opportunities. That is why we managed to secure such a big win. They showed great understanding of the game and commitment from the first whistle,” Morris noted.

From the outset, the Serengeti Boys wasted no time asserting their dominance. Striker Dismus Athanasi opened the scoring in the 10th minute, before doubling the lead in the 16th minute.

Sudan struggled to cope with Tanzania’s high press and fast ball movement and in the 21st minute, Nhingo Luzelenga added a third, giving Tanzania a commanding 3–0 lead at the break.

In the second half, Tanzania maintained control of the match, dictating possession and tempo. Kassim Juma scored the fourth in the 57th minute, converting a wellworked team move.

Substitute Soann Shabani made it 5–0 in the 74th minute with a composed finish, before Hamis Baruai capped off the complete performance with an 80th-minute strike.

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Despite the resounding scoreline, Morris emphasized that the team must stay focused as the qualifiers progress, insisting there is no time to celebrate, as their journey is far from over.

“We must stay focused, continue improving and approach every match with the same seriousness. The qualifiers are tough and we want to maintain consistency throughout.”

While the match was largely dominated by Tanzania, Sudan struggled defensively, failing to recover after conceding early.

Their inability to cope with Tanzania’s fast-paced attacking play and solid defensive structure highlighted the gulf in class on the day.

The win places the Serengeti Boys at the top of Group B with three points, level with neighbours Uganda, but ahead on goal difference.

Djibouti has yet to play a game, while Burundi sits in fourth and Sudan remains at the bottom, both teams without a point following their opening losses.