Twiga Stars shine in back-to-back wins over DRC

DAR ES SALAAM: THE national women’s football team, Twiga Stars Head Coach Bakari Shime has heaped praise on his side’s impressive run-in recent friendlies, describing the back-to-back victories against Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as a crucial tactical litmus test that his squad passed with flying colours.

Speaking with visible pride following the second triumph, Shime highlighted the progress made across key areas of the pitch, noting a significant uptick in defensive structure and wing efficiency, two facets he believes were instrumental in securing consecutive wins.

“We fielded four defenders and a single defensive midfielder, and I must say, the flanks have transformed and they’re now bursting with real pace,” said Shime, radiating optimism after the final whistle.

Twiga Stars are brimming with confidence as they finalise preparations for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals set to kick off later this month in Morocco.

Their most recent encounter, held Tuesday at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam, saw the Stars dazzle with a commanding 3–1 victory over DRC.

Veteran forward Opah Clement opened the scoring in the 26th minute, followed by a sharp finish from Juliet Singano in the 43rd minute.

ALSO READ: Stars set for Bafana Bafana battle

Just minutes into the second half, redhot striker C l a r a Luvanga a d d e d a third in the 47th, extending her stellar scoring streak. DRC managed a late consolation through Esther Bushiri Dikisa in stoppage time, but the outcome was never in doubt.

This emphatic win follows their earlier 2–1 success over the same opponents at the same venue. Luvanga was the star of that match, netting both goals with trademark precision and calm.

Her tally now stands at three goals across the two fixtures – a clear warning to WAFCON rivals.

Commenting about the two games Captain Opah echoed her coach’s sentiments , calling the friend lies an ideal test against quality opposition. “

DR Congo is also headed to WAFCON, so playing them gave us the perfect benchmark. The matches helped us sharpen our game,” Opah explained.

She went on to underline the importance of tactical discipline, “For us as players, the most critical thing is to absorb and execute the coach’s instructions exactly. That’s what has led to our success.”

With morale high and momentum building, Twiga Stars are preparing to enter what has been dubbed the ‘Group of Grit’ – Group C – where they will face defending champions South Africa, as well as continental giants Ghana and Mali. It is a pool packed with pedigree and promise.

Meanwhile, Group B is set for its own drama, featuring record 11- time champions Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.