OTFA credits government, Tanzanians for memorable success in Europe

DAR ES SALAAM: ONE Tanzanite Football Academy (OTFA) has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Tanzania and Tanzanians for their support and facilitation that enabled the academy to successfully compete in prestigious youth football tournaments in Sweden and Denmark.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam today upon the team’s return, OTFA Head Coach Adam John Mwakibibi said the academy’s achievements were made possible by the support they received before and throughout the international tour.

He said the Government, through its institutions, played a key role in facilitating the trip, while Tanzanians continued to encourage and support the young players as they represented the country abroad.

Mwakibibi also extended special appreciation to the Embassy of Tanzania in Sweden for its warm reception and unwavering support throughout their stay, saying the assistance demonstrated the Government’s commitment to the team’s success from the time they left Tanzania until their return.

“The way we were received and supported gave us confidence that our Government stood with us every step of the journey,” he said.

The coach noted that the success belongs not only to the players who travelled but also to the academy, parents, teachers, leaders, teammates who remained at home and all Tanzanians who believed in them.

As a result of the successful tour, OTFA won the Under-17 title at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, while its Under-18/19 side reached the last 32. The academy later travelled to Denmark for the Dana Cup, where the Under-17 team reached the round of 16 and the Under-18/19 side finished third.

Mwakibibi said the achievements reflect the growing quality of Tanzanian youth football and prove that the country’s young talents can compete successfully on the international stage.

Tanzania Sports Council (BMT) Sports Officer Petro Gallos Chelula congratulated the academy for bringing home the trophies and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to creating a more supportive environment for nurturing young sporting talent.

Team captain Ismail Elija and player Said Rashid also thanked the Government, academy leaders and parents for their support, saying discipline, determination and hard work were the key ingredients behind the team’s impressive performance in Europe.