Mapinduzi Cup: “We must be more clinical” – URA’s Mbalangu reflects on Singida draw, eyes Azam showdown

URA FC head coach Hussein Mbalangu expressed satisfaction with his players’ overall performance but admitted sharper finishing will be key as the Tax Collectors chase a semifinal spot at the 2026 Mapinduzi Cup.

URA were held to a 1-1 draw by Singida Black Stars in their second Group A match played in Zanzibar on Saturday, a result that leaves qualification finely balanced heading into the final round of fixtures.

The Tax Collectors made a bright start and were rewarded when Hudu Mulikyi broke the deadlock, calmly sweeping home from inside the area after Fred Amaku, despite being off balance, cleverly teed him up.

URA, however, were punished for a lapse in concentration at the back on the stroke of halftime when Kiggundu Arthur failed to clear his lines, allowing Idris Diomande to bundle in from close range to restore parity.

Clear-cut chances were limited thereafter, though URA came close to reclaiming the lead when Amaku found space in the box, turned sharply, but saw his effort blocked as Singida stood firm.

With neither side able to find a decisive breakthrough in the second half, the contest ended all square.

Reflecting after the match, Mbalangu struck a balanced tone, praising his side’s application while demanding improvement in front of goal.

“I am pleased with the way the players competed and controlled large spells of the game,” Mbalangu said. “We created moments and showed good structure, but we must be more clinical when chances come. At this level, you have to take your opportunities.”

URA now sit on four points in Group A following their opening 1-0 victory over defending champions Mlandege, and attention quickly turns to a decisive final group encounter.

Looking ahead to Monday’s must-win clash against Azam FC, Mbalangu was confident his side will rise to the occasion.

“The Azam match is a final for us. We know what is at stake and we have to win to qualify. We will prepare well, and I promise our fans that we shall put up a very good show,” he added.
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URA FC face Azam FC on Monday, knowing only victory will secure a place in the Mapinduzi Cup semifinals.

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