U-17 coach credits rout to preps

DAR ES SALAAM: SERENGETI Boys Coach Elieneza Nsanganzelu has attributed his team’s stunning 11–0 rout of Djibouti in the CECAFA Zone AFCON U-17 Qualifiers to a year-long programme of intense preparation, discipline and tactical refinement.

Speaking on Tuesday after the team’s second consecutive victory, Nsanganzelu said the emphatic win was a true reflection of the Serengeti Boys’ rising confidence and growing tactical maturity as the qualification campaign gathers momentum.

“We came into this tournament fully prepared, and today’s result reflects the hard work we’ve put in over the past year,” he stated.

The coach emphasised that the team is guided by a clear mission: win every match, dominate the group, and push deeper into the tournament.

He described consistency as the compass steering Tanzania’s young stars toward their ambition of joining the continent’s football elite.

“Our target has always been to top the group every match day and scoring freely was part of our plan to stay in control,” he noted.

Nsanganzelu further highlighted the importance of facing top-tier opponents, saying true growth only comes from competing with teams capable of stretching their limits.

“If you want to be the best, you must face the best — and we’re delighted to be meeting a strong side next. We welcome the challenge.”

With Uganda waiting in their next fixture, the coach urged Tanzanians to show up in numbers, stressing that crowd energy gives the players an extra push, especially in high pressure games.

He also commended his side’s defensive solidity, calling it a cornerstone of their commanding performances so far.

“We’ve built a strong defensive structure and a confident team. We invite everyone to come and witness what promises to be a thrilling contest.”

The goals in the Djibouti demolition were shared among Issa Chole, Sadam Hamis, Nhingo Juma, Dismas Athnas and Sian Adam who scored one goal each and Luqman Ally who netted six goals.

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Remarkably, Luqman Ally etched his name in the tournament’s early headlines by completing two hat-tricks in a single match, a rare feat at any level of the game.

The Serengeti Boys had already announced their intentions with a 6–0 win over Sudan in their opening fixture.

With Tuesday’s result, they sit comfortably atop Group B with six points and a staggering 17 goals scored in two matches.

Ally, the six-goal hero, credited his extraordinary display to commitment and adherence to the coaching staff’s tactical instructions.

“My six goals were the result of hard work and following the coaches’ plan,” he said.

Looking ahead to the Uganda clash, Ally promised an even sharper performance “We’ll prepare thoroughly to secure a big win. Tanzanians should expect a strong match.”