Shime calls for belief and discipline ahead of Tanzanite Queens’ decisive Cameroon clash

Head coach Bakari Shime has urged his players to show belief, discipline, and courage when the Tanzania women’s U-20 national team, Tanzanite Queens, face Cameroon Women’s U-20 National Team in the decisive return leg of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers this weekend in Zanzibar.

Tanzanite Queens will enter the crucial encounter aiming to overturn a 3-1 defeat suffered in the first leg in Yaounde as they continue their pursuit of a historic place at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Poland 2026 finals.

Speaking ahead of the match, Shime said the players must remain focused throughout the contest and avoid unnecessary mistakes if they are to overcome the strong Cameroonian side.

“We understand the challenge ahead of us because Cameroon are a very good team, but football is about believing until the final whistle,” said Shime.

“The players know what is required and the most important thing is to stay disciplined in every department on the pitch.”

The tactician explained that his technical bench has focused on improving concentration levels and tactical organization after identifying areas that cost the team during the first leg encounter.

“In matches like these, small mistakes can punish you,” he explained.

“We have worked on improving our defending, communication, and decision-making because we cannot afford to lose concentration again.”

Shime also insisted that the team will not abandon its attacking approach despite needing goals to overturn the aggregate score.

“We need to be smart and patient,” he said.

“We know we must score, but we should not rush or panic. The players have quality and if we use our chances well, we can change the game.”

The coach further praised the fighting spirit shown by the players during preparations, noting that the squad remains united and motivated ahead of the high stakes encounter.

“The morale in camp is very positive,” Shime added.

“The girls are working hard and everyone wants to make the country proud. Opportunities like this do not come often, so we must give everything on the pitch.”

He also called on Tanzanian football fans to rally behind the team and create a strong atmosphere in Zanzibar during the match.

“This is an important moment for women’s football in Tanzania,” he said.

“We need our supporters to stand with these young players because their encouragement can make a big difference.”

The winner over the two legs will qualify for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals in Poland later this year.

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