Maximo picks new goalie to replace injured 'Barthez'
Kilimanjaro Stars head coach Marcio Maximo
By Majuto Omary
Kilimanjaro Stars head coach Marcio Maximo has called up goalie Mwarami Mohamed from Mozambique's premiership team ……..to replace injured Ali Mustapha.
The mainland soccer team, which is gearing up for the looming East African Challenge Cup, will clash with Uganda on Sunday in their tournament opener.
"We hoped he would recover on time, but that proved impossible and therefore Mohamed will replace him," Maximo said.
The Brazilian coach showered praise on Mustapha for his striking performances before sustaining a niggling injury.
Mohamed will join other goalkeepers who include; Shaaban Dihile and Kado Shaaban.
"All other players are in buoyant moods going into the Sunday's match and I believe they’ll humble the champions," he said.
Kilimanjaro Stars look set to replicate the 1994 success when the mainland side clinched the coveted trophy under outspoken coach Syllersaid Mziray.
Maximo said Kilimanjaro Stars were in a group of death, Group C that comprises Zanzibar, Uganda and Burundi.
"Our group has formidable teams, thus we've to strive in order to overcome the likes of Uganda and Burundi," the coach said.
Maximo underscored: "We really have to beat the best teams if we want to lift up the trophy."
Kenya, Zambia, Ethiopia and Djibouti form Group A, while Group B comprises Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Eritrea and Somalia.
The tactician hailed the Government and Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) for giving him a "tremendous"support.
"President Jakaya Kikwete's speech impressed me very much because it touched almost every angle…he demonstrated his great understanding of coaches' roles," he commended.
The Brazilian also lavished praises on TFF president Leodegar Tenga for his good leadership, saying: "He represents proactive sports leaders.
