Taifa Stars coach unfazed by Kagoma absence ahead of Madagascar clash

DAR ES SALAAM: Taifa Stars head coach Hemed Suleiman has said he is not overly concerned about the absence of midfielder Yusuph Kagoma ahead of their next CHAN 2024 Group B match against Madagascar, set for Saturday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Kagoma will miss the crucial tie after picking up his second yellow card of the tournament during Tanzania’s 1–0 win over Mauritania on Wednesday, having also been cautioned in the opening match against Burkina Faso.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Suleiman acknowledged that Kagoma’s suspension was a setback, but expressed confidence in his squad’s depth and ability to fill the gap effectively.

“We will definitely miss Kagoma, but I am not that much worried,” said Suleiman.

“I believe in the strength of our squad. We have players who can step in and offer the same weight Kagoma gave us.”

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The coach cited their in-game decision to substitute Kagoma with Ahmed Pipino as an example of his belief in his bench options. However, Pipino unfortunately picked up an injury shortly after coming on.

“It was unfortunate that Pipino got injured just a few minutes after he was introduced, but he’s doing well so far,” Suleiman reported, offering an encouraging update on the player’s condition.

Despite Pipino’s limited experience with the national team, Suleiman spoke highly of the young midfielder’s potential.

“He’s a good player. He may not have enough national team experience yet, but we believe if we continue giving him and other young players time, they’ll grow and become important to the team,” he said.

Tanzania will go into Saturday’s fixture looking to build on their win against Mauritania and Burkina Faso, as they aim to secure qualification to the knockout stages of the tournament.