Stars show growth – Gamondi

MOROCCO: TAIFA Stars Coach Miguel Gamondi expressed encouragement about his team’s progress despite a 2–1 defeat to Nigeria, stressing that Tanzania is showing clear improvement in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In a post-match interview following the Group C match, the Argentine coach noted that the performance represented significant growth compared to Tanzania’s previous international friendly against Kuwait last month.

“I have seen real growth in my squad. If I compare the match we played against Kuwait with this one, the improvement is very clear,” he stated.

While acknowledging that Tanzania still has areas to improve, particularly in defence, Gamondi expressed satisfaction with the team’s attacking approach and confidence.

“We need to improve defensively. The performance of my players was great, even though we made a mistake on the corner that led to the first goal. However, we demonstrated that we can start matches with an attacking mindset and score goals,” he said.

He also mentioned that Nigeria’s quality made the match a valuable learning experience for his players.

“Nigeria is not a team you can simply attack,” he explained. “This match has helped Tanzania understand, that is why I am happy and proud of the players.”

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Tanzania has two remaining Group C fixtures against Uganda on Saturday and Tunisia on Tuesday, with qualification for the knockout stage still mathematically possible.

Despite the defeat, the coach emphasised the importance of staying focused, noting that victories in the remaining matches could keep their hopes alive.

Currently, Group C is led by Tunisia, who are tied on points with Nigeria but ahead on goal difference. Tanzania sit third without any points, level with Uganda, who are at the bottom of the group.

A maximum return from the final two matches would give Taifa Stars a chance to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in the finals.

On the other hand, Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle highlighted the need for improvements within his squad after lamenting missed chances early in the game despite dominating possession.

“At this level, small details decide games. We played well, but we must reduce our mistakes, especially against stronger opponents,” Chelle stated.

He added that the encounter provided valuable lessons for the coaching staff ahead of tougher matches in the group.

“AFCON is about consistency. We will analyse this game carefully and make the necessary corrections before the next match,” he concluded.