Maximo targets revival as KMC host Mtibwa in high stakes duel
KMC head coach Marcio Maximo (third from right) gives instructions to his players during a training session ahead of their Premier League match. PHOTO/COURTESY
Kickoff is set for 4pm in what promises to be a defining match for both sides, particularly their head coaches, Marcio Maximo and Yusuph Chipo, who are both under pressure to deliver points.
Dar es Salaam. The Mainland Premier League resumes today with a single but highly significant fixture as Kinondoni Municipal Council (KMC) host Mtibwa Sugar at the KMC Complex.
Kickoff is set for 4pm in what promises to be a defining match for both sides, particularly their head coaches, Marcio Maximo and Yusuph Chipo, who are both under pressure to deliver points.
KMC enter the match sitting at the bottom of the league table with just three points from seven matches.
Their campaign has been marked by six straight defeats following their only victory of the season, a troubling trend that has raised concerns about confidence and consistency within the squad. Despite the difficult run, Brazilian tactician Marcio Maximo continues to emphasize resilience, discipline and belief.
“We know the situation we are in, but we cannot afford to give up,” Maximo said ahead of the match. “The players have been working hard and what we need now is composure, discipline and the courage to fight for every moment.
This is a match we must approach with full commitment.” Mtibwa Sugar, meanwhile, are placed 14th with five points from five matches.
The team has won once, drawn twice and lost twice, but both of those defeats came at the KMC Complex, a ground that has never been kind to them.
Historically, Mtibwa have struggled against KMC, failing to win a single away match at the venue since the hosts were promoted in 2018.
Returning to the top flight this season, Mtibwa Sugar arrive with renewed ambition but still seeking consistency. Their most recent outing — a 2–0 loss to champions Yanga — exposed areas that head coach Yusuf Chipo believes must improve if his side is to secure a positive result today.
“We know the history, but history does not play the match,” Chipo said. “What matters is how we approach the game today. We respect KMC, especially at home, but we have prepared well and we want to show improvement.
Our focus is on staying organized and using our chances better.” Both coaches acknowledge one shared challenge: their teams’ struggle to convert chances into goals.
While both sides have shown promising buildup play, poor finishing has cost them crucial points. Maximo and Chipo agree that clinical execution, tactical patience and full concentration throughout the match will be essential.
“This is a match that can change our direction if we take it seriously,” Maximo added.
