DAR ES SALAAM: Stars face a must-win showdown against Guinea today at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es salaam in a decisive 2025 Africa cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match.
With both teams vying for the final group H spot, Tanzania must secure all three points to leapfrog Guinea, who hold a narrow two-points advantages in second place.
Taifa Stars kept their AFCON qualification hopes alive with a commanding 2-0 victory over Ethiopia last Saturday in Kinshasa. First-half goals from Simon Msuva and Feisal Salum sealed the win.
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Head coach Hemed Suleiman is accurately aware that a win is non-negotiable for Taifa Stars to secure their AFCON qualification, and he is banking on the home advantage to propel his team.
Tanzania’s 2-1 triumph in the reserve fixture away in guinea serves as a source of motivation, with Suleiman hoping that the team’s past success against today’s opponents will inspire confidence in their crucial encounter.
Coach Hemed Suleiman emphasised the team’s readiness ahead of the crucial encounter, affirming that all players are in optimal physical and mental condition. He expressed confidence in their determination and commitment to give their absolute best to secure the much-needed victory.
He acknowledged that Tanzania frequently finds itself securing AFCON qualification in the high-pressure final group matches. He assured that the familiar scenario does not unsettle him, as he is accustomed to navigating such decisive moments.
“We are in great form and fully prepared to face our opponents. securing an AFCON qualification has never been easy- it’s always a tough battle. but we are ready. we remain calm, without pressure, knowing the responsibility we carry. we are here to fight for our country,” he said.
However, the Taifa stars face a significant challenge, having not won any of their last two qualifying campaigns against Ethiopia and DR Congo.
Guinea enters the match against Tanzania with the aim of avoiding defeat, as a draw would be enough to secure the second qualification spot.
Their recent form has been solid, highlighted by a dramatic last-minute goal from Borrusia Dortmund’s striker, Serhou Guirassy, which helped Guinea Edge DR Congo 1-0 last weekend. The Victory has boosted their confidence upon this decisive clash in Dar es Salaam.
Guinea’s Coach, Kaba Diawara , is optimistic after their team after his team won three matches following two opening loses. They boast a strong away record, including victories over Ethiopia and Algeria in previous qualifiers, which should bolster their confidence against Tanzania.
For the Taifa Stars, Feisal Salum is the Top scorer for Tanzania in the AFCON qualifiers, while Simon Msuva aims to maintain his scoring form and Mbwana Samatta, another key player and skipper will lead the attack.
On the Guinea side, Guirassy, currently the leading scorer in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, has netted six goals in three matches and will be a crucial player to the watch.
The attacking line up will also feature Francois Kamano, Seydouba Cisse and Arouca’s Morlaye Sylla, supported by midfielders Abdoulaye Toure and Mady Camara.
As the stakes rise, all eyes will be on Taifa Stars as they strive to turn the tide in their favor and secure a place in the 2025 AFCON finals.
