Tanzania keeper Foba: “I believe we can get past AFCON group stage”

Tanzania national team stand-in goalkeeper Zuferi Foba remains optimistic that the Taifa Stars can surprise at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ahead of their second Group C match against East African rivals Uganda.

“All that is left for now is to pray for each other in the next match. I believe we can get past the group stage,” the young goalkeeper said in comments recored by Mwanaspoti.

 

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Saturday’s clash (18:30 local time) in the Moroccan capital of Rabat presents an excellent opportunity for the winner to take a big step closer towards qualification for the Round of 16. With four out of six third place finishers advancing for the knockout stages, three points could be enough to do the job.

And for Tanzania, advancing out of Group C would be a historic achievement. The Taifa Stars, now in their fourth appearance at the finals, have exited the group stage in all of their previous showings. A familar foe will give them confidence that they can achieve a first-ever victory in their history at the competition.

All of the signs are encouraging after providing a firm test against favorites Nigeria. After coming close to claiming a point in 1-2 defeat, the return of playmaker Feisal Salum from suspension opens up an opportunity for the Azam FC star to link up with fellow attacking midfielder Charles M’Mombwa, who impressed and scored against Nigeria.

One player who will not be in action is regular starting goalkeeper Yakoub Suleiman, who remains out injured after missing the opener. Foba, the 23-year-old Azam FC shot stopper who has made only sixteen appearances for his club, stepped in admirably on his Taifa Stars debut and will be confident to do the job again.

But the attack remains Tanzania’s greatest concern. Veteran forwards Ally Mbwana Samatta and Simon Msuva were not particularly threatening and substitute forward Kelvin John failed to impress. Coach Miguel Angel Gamondi’s other options are limited with pacey wingers Iddy Nado (Azam FC)  and Kibu Denis (Simba SC) available but unproven at this level.

Tanzania will lean on their strong defensive unit and familiarity with rivals Uganda in what appears likely to be an even clash. Clear underdogs in their third group stage matches on Tuesday, there will be plenty at stake as each team remains hopeful of a potential place in the knockout stages.