Shime: Twiga Stars players must show fighting spirit

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s national women’s football team, Twiga Stars, head coach Bakari Shime has urged his players to fight hard in tomorrow’s return leg of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Equatorial Guinea at Estadio de Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.

Twiga Stars need just a draw to advance to the next stage after their 3-1 victory at the Azam Complex in the first leg. However, a 2-0 loss would see them eliminated from the competition.

Shime stressed the importance of determination, stating that his players must be aware of the results needed to either qualify or be knocked out in the match, which is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 p.m. East African Time.

“There is still another crucial and tough round against Equatorial Guinea that will determine our fate in the road to the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco. We know the match will not be easy, as Equatorial Guinea are two-time champions,” said Shime.

“Our goal is to secure a spot in the 2026 tournament, which also serves as a qualifying pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.”

Despite the absence of key player Clara Luvanga due to injury, Shime reassured fans that the team remains strong.

“All players are in top shape, and we have others ready to step up and fill the gap to make the country proud in the return leg,” he added.

A total of 38 African nations are competing for one of the 12 available spots in the final tournament, alongside hosts Morocco, who qualify automatically.

Records show that, Morocco will be hosting the finals for the third, reaffirming the country’s commitment to developing and promoting the sport across the continent.

Defending champions South Africa are among six nations exempted from the first round due to their high FIFA ranking. 

They are joined by Zambia, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, and Cameroon, all of whom are expected to make a strong impact when they enter the competition in the second round.

The qualification process is set to highlight emerging forces in African women’s football while showcasing the growing competitiveness of established nations. 

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations promises to be a celebration of talent and passion, driving the sport forward across the continent.