Azam FC's silverware hopes now rest on Mainland league
Azam FC attacking midfielder Zidane Sereri (9) battles a Mbeya City player during the CRDB Federation Cup match at Azam Complex last Sunday night. Mbeya City won 4-2 on penalties. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The Chamazi-based side was knocked out by Championship team Mbeya City, losing 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time
Dar es Salaam. Azam FC’s hopes of winning a trophy this season now rest solely on the Mainland Tanzania Premier League after their shocking elimination from the CRDB Federation Cup in the Round of 32.
The Chamazi-based side was knocked out by Championship team Mbeya City, losing 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Mbeya City took the lead in the 64th minute through Daniel William, but Azam FC managed to equalize in the dying moments, thanks to Yahya Zaid’s goal.
The match then proceeded to penalties, where Mbeya City converted four of their five spot-kicks through Adili Buha, Baraka Philemon, David Mwasa, and Riffat Msuya, while Kilaza Mazoea missed.
On the other hand, Azam FC scored through Lusajo Mwaikenda and James Akaminko, but Gibril Sillah and Nathaniel Chilambo failed to convert their chances.
This unexpected early exit is a major setback for Azam FC, who must now shift their focus to the remaining league matches to ensure a strong finish.
Their primary goal will be to overtake Simba SC in second place while also attempting to close the gap on defending champions Young Africans (Yanga), who currently lead the league standings.
Azam FC have so far accumulated 45 points from 22 matches, trailing Simba SC by nine points.
The Msimbazi giants have 54 points from 21 games, while Yanga sits at the top with 58 points from 22 matches, 13 ahead of Azam FC.
In other round of 32 matches, Singida Black Stars dominated Leo Tena with a 4-0 victory at CCM Liti Stadium in Singida.
KMC secured a 2-0 win over Cosmopolitan at KMC Complex in Mwenge, Dar es Salaam, while Big Man FC eliminated Tanzania Prisons with a 3-2 penalty shootout win after a 1-1 draw at Mabatini Stadium in Mlandizi, Coast Region.
Meanwhile, Mashujaa FC became the first team to reach the Round of 16 after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Geita Gold, courtesy of an 83rd-minute penalty by Abdulrahman Mussa at Lake Tanganyika Stadium in Kigoma.
