Serengeti Boys given Sh 1 billion for Afcon preps
Dar es Salaam. President Dr John Magufuli today donated Sh 1 billion to support the preparations of the national U-17 soccer team; Serengeti Boys ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon finals) scheduled to kick off in Dares Salaam on April 14.
Speaking during the special ceremony to congratulate the National soccer team, Taifa Stars players and boxer, Hassan Mwakinyo, President Magufuli said he decided give his support due to the belief that the team can qualify for the World Championship in Brazil.
Earlier the tournament was scheduled to be held in Peru, but the venue was changed inFebruary 2019 following the inspection of the facilities and concern over organisational challenges.
President Magufuli said that he had on several occasions received calls from Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa calling on him to help the team with their preparations.
“I have decided to support the team and preparations for the tournament. My target is to see Serengeti Boys qualify for the World Cup finals. I have been told that two teams in each group will qualify for the world Championships, I want our players to aim for that,” said President Magufuli.
Serengeti Boys will open the U-17 Afcon finals, playing against Nigeria on April 14 before facing Angola on April 17.
They will then take on Uganda in what will be their final group stage match. Group B comprises Guinea, Cameroon, Morocco and Senegal. Meanwhile national U-17 team coach has expressed optimism at the team’s camp in Doha saying the team is responding well to the tacticians’ instructions.
