Taifa Stars ready to shine on the Afcon stage
What you need to know:
- The tournament, running from January 13 to February 11, will see Tanzania clash with Morocco, DR Congo, and Zambia in a competitive Group F.
Dar es Salaam. Head coach Abdelkader Amrouche has declared the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals in Ivory Coast a "golden opportunity" for Taifa Stars to showcase their talent against continental giants.
The tournament, running from January 13 to February 11, will see Tanzania clash with Morocco, DR Congo, and Zambia in a competitive Group F.
Amrouche, however, remains unfazed by the prospect of facing formidable opponents.
"We understand the challenge ahead," the coach said, "but our primary focus is to give our best and leave everything on the pitch. Afcon provides a platform for our players to measure themselves against the best in Africa, and I'm confident they'll rise to the occasion."
Amrouche expressed optimism about the team's preparations, citing their strong performance in training sessions and an upcoming friendly against Egypt on January 8. "The players are motivated and eager to prove themselves," he affirmed. "Everyone is ready for the clash."
The 31-man squad, brimming with domestic and international talent, features seasoned goalkeepers like Aishi Manula and Metacha Mnata alongside rising stars like Kwesi Kawawa and Beno Kakolanya.
The defense boasts a formidable lineup, including experienced campaigners like Mohammed Hussein and Ibrahim Hamadi Bacca, alongside Shakhtar Donetsk's Novatus Dismas and England-based Haji Mnoga and Abdi Banda.
The midfield is equally impressive, with Azam FC duo Sospeter Bajana and Feisal Salum alongside Mudathir Yahaya, Twaliq Abdillahi, and Morice Abraham.
The attacking unit promises fireworks, with Ben Starkie, Abdul Suleiman Sopu, Cyprian Kachwele, and Charles M'mombwa joined by Saimon Msuva and the experienced captain, Mbwana Samatta.
While the current squad boasts 31 players, the final Afcon roster will be trimmed down to 27 in accordance with tournament regulations.
Amrouche, however, remains focused on the immediate task at hand. "We're taking things one game at a time," he emphasized. "Our goal is to give our best performance in every match and make the Tanzanian people proud."
Taifa Stars are poised to make a strong statement at the Afcon finals. With Amrouche's guidance, their blend of experience, talent, and determination could propel them to achieve remarkable results on the continental stage.
