World Cup (Q): Suleiman confesses Tanzania group was within gasp but ‘we let it slip away’

Tanzania national team coach Hemed Suleiman has admitted that they squandered a great opportunity to stay on course to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup after losing 1-0 against Zambia at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on Wednesday.

The defeat crushed Taifa Stars’ hopes of making it to the 2026 World Cup playoffs, just months after they seemed on course to finish second in Group E. Fashion Sakala scored what turned out to be the winner after finishing off a cross from Lubambo Musonda.

‘This group was within our grasp’

Speaking after the game, a disappointed Suleiman said Tanzania should blame themselves for letting go of their slim chances. He further said they should have used the home advantage to the maximum against Zambia.

“We let it slip away. At one point, we had nine points and two home games to seal qualification. But poor finishing and lapses in key moments have cost us dearly. This group was within our grasp,” Suleman said as quoted by Daily News.

On his part, Zambia coach Avram Grant said: “It was a must-win game and the players showed great resilience. Sakala’s goal was well-timed and our second-half tactics worked perfectly. Now, we prepare for the final game against Niger. It’s all or nothing.”

The defeat left Tanzania third with 10 points, 11 fewer than leaders Morocco, who have already secured their spot, while Zambia remained fourth with nine points. Niger are second with 12 points.

Zambia must beat Niger by at least two goals to have any chance of finishing second and qualifying for the playoffs. Zambia will return home to Ndola for a decisive clash with Niger, one final shot to rescue their World Cup dream.

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