Tenga applauds Taifa Stars, backs AFCON 2027 plans

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Leodgar Tenga, has expressed satisfaction with Tanzania’s preparations ahead of the continental tournament.

AFCON 2027, Africa’s premier national team football competition, will be jointly hosted by Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya, marking a historic milestone for East African football.

Tenga, who is also Chairman of the National Sports Council (NSC), made the remarks during a reception hosted by President Samia Suluhu Hassan at State House in Dar es Salaam on Friday to commend the national team, Taifa Stars, for their recent achievements.

“The preparations are progressing well and much of the critical groundwork has already been accomplished,” Tenga said, highlighting Tanzania’s commitment to delivering a successful and memorable tournament.

The former Taifa Stars captain also praised the national team’s recent performances, describing them as a significant boost for football fans and the wider sports community in Tanzania.

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He particularly highlighted the team’s historic qualification for the Round of 16, noting it as the first time the squad has reached this stage in AFCON history.

“Our players fought with determination and discipline. They have made history and given the nation something to be proud of,” Tenga said.

He also commended the efforts of the technical bench, emphasising that the players’ and coaches’ contributions have laid a strong foundation for future success.

With expectations rising ahead of AFCON 2027, Tenga said sports stakeholders remain optimistic that Taifa Stars will continue to improve and deliver even stronger performances in upcoming competitions.