Namungo offload six players amidst challenging season
LINDI: PREMIER League side Namungo have let go of six players this season, with notable departures including midfielder Frank Domayo and wingback Djuma Shabani.
Alongside Domayo and Shabani, the club have also parted ways with Amade Momade, Raphael Loth, Ritch Nkoli and Moubarack Amza. Despite the exits, Namungo have not yet announced any new signings as they work to reshape their squad.
The season has been rough for Namungo, as the team struggled in the league’s early stages. Their performance began with three consecutive defeats in their opening matches. The rough start continued, leading to three additional losses after just two wins, bringing their total defeats to a concerning six in their first eight games.
By the time they secured their third win, they had already accumulated nine losses in 12 matches— troubling statistics for the management. The mounting pressure ultimately led to a managerial change, as head coach Mwinyi Zahera parted ways with the club. Following Zahera’s departure, Juma Mgunda was appointed as the new head coach.
Under Mgunda’s leadership, Namungo have experienced a positive shift. In their last four league games, the team remained unbeaten, recording two draws and two wins. This newfound stability has instilled a sense of optimism within the club.
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Although their recent performances indicate significant improvement, the team still holds a position in 12th place on the table, with 17 points from 16 matches, averaging just over a point per match.
Breaking down Namungo’s season reveals an erratic form. With nine losses in 12 games, their early struggles were evident. However, since Mgunda’s arrival, the team have avoided defeat in their last four matches, signalling the potential for a midseason turnaround.
Their total of 17 points from 16 matches reflects a challenging season, with an average of 1.06 points per game. While this is not catastrophic, it places them in the lower half of the table, where they desperately need consistency to avoid a relegation battle.
In the Tanzanian Premier League, teams that average around 1.5 points per match are generally considered safe from relegation, while averages below 1.0 points per game usually indicate a club in trouble.
For Namungo, the remaining matches will be crucial. With the transfer window now open, they may still be looking to strengthen their squad with recruits. Their recent results under Mgunda could signify better things to come, but they must continue to build momentum to improve their standing and secure their league status for next season.
As the transfer market unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Namungo can capitalise on the changes they have made and find the right mix to challenge for a higher position in the table during the second half of the season. The offloading of several players and the absence of new signings thus far raises questions about their strategy, but the club’s recent unbeaten streak provides hope for a turnaround in their fortunes.
