CHAN: Tanzania aim is to finish unbeaten in Group B – Suleiman

Tanzania national team coach Hemed Suleiman has explained why he wants the top spot in Group B and to keep their unbeaten run in the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa.

Taifa Stars have already sealed the knockout stages spot following their impressive performances in the group. They kicked off their campaign by beating Burkina Faso 2-0, edged out Mauritius 1-0, and defeated Madagascar 2-1 and are perched top of the group with nine points.

Ahead of their final Group B contest against Central African Republic at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Saturday, Sulieman said his side is fully focused on maintaining their winning momentum.

“It’s been a good run so far with three wins and we want to keep that going. What has brought us this far is the players’ spirit and unity. We have had to dig deep in every match and now we want to finish the group stage strongly,” he said as quoted by Daily News.

“Some may think it has been easy, but every match has been intense. We have fought hard in each game to secure maximum points and I credit my players for their fighting spirit and teamwork.

“I am also grateful for the support from the government, starting with President Samia Suluhu Hassan, as well as the ministries, federation and fellow Tanzanians.”

Tanzania team captain Dickson Job echoed the coach’s sentiments, saying preparations are in top gear and that the squad is motivated to secure all 12 points.

“We are ready and determined. A win on Saturday will boost our confidence heading into the quarterfinals,” said Job. “These results show how committed the team is. From the start of the tournament, we have been focused and disciplined and we want to continue that.”