Samia rewards Stars 110m/-

THE national soccer team ‘Taifa Stars’ have been presented with a 100m/- bonus after their stunning performance against Zambia’s ‘Chipolopolo’ in the CAF 2026 World Cup qualifying encounter.

Stars clinched a vital 1-0 victory over their hosts ‘Chipolopolo’ after showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Tuesday evening in Ndola.

In recognition of their outstanding performance, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has awarded the team and the technical bench.

Apart from the bonus, the team has also been awarded 10m/- for the 1-0 victory through the ‘Goli la Mama’ motivation package which renews the confidence and determination of the team to march forward in their quest for World Cup qualification and other tournaments.

Speaking about the match, Stars’ Head Coach, Hemed Suleiman ‘Morocco’ expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance against Zambia, lauding their determination in the challenging match in which their opponents were favourites.

Stars broke the deadlock of the game that was held at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Tuesday evening in the early minute through Waziri Junior who netted the lone goal in the 5th minute through Mudathir Yahya’s assist to guarantee Stars the three crucial points in their campaign to accumulate six points in their group standings.

Currently occupying the second position in Group E, Stars trail behind tabletoppers Morocco, who boast an impressive 9 points.

The Atlas Lions bagged the points after inflicting a heavy 6-0 defeat on Congo at Stade Adrar in their third match of the CAF 2026 World Cup qualifiers held on Tuesday evening.

Tanzania is closely followed by Niger and Zambia who are tied on point after accumulating 3 points each and Congo without a point at the bottom of the group which involves five sides after Eritrea withdrew from the campaign.

The Stars tactician also emphasized the importance of this win, highlighting the players’ adherence to tactical instructions and their dedication on the field.

“The victory against Zambia is attributed to the players’ adherence to the technical bench’s instructions and their precise execution, resulting in positive outcomes,” he said.

Looking ahead, Coach Hemed emphasized the team’s focus on upcoming fixtures, aiming to secure vital points that will solidify their position in the race for the 2026 World Cup qualification.

Goal scorer Waziri Junior expressed his delight at scoring his first international goal for Tanzania, attributing his success to the guidance of the coaching staff and the support of his senior teammates.

“I am thrilled with our victory, it was my debut international match, but the guidance of our senior players made it a smooth experience. Our attention now shifts to the next challenge,” stated Waziri Junior.

According to the fixture, the next game is scheduled for next year where Tanzania will host Congo on March 17, and later on the same month on the 24th, Tanzania will be away against Morocco.