By Flora Mkoloma
The Tanzania national football team, Taifa Stars, has intensified its preparations for their upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Morocco.
The game, which will take place in Morocco, is critical for the team’s hopes of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Currently based in Tanga, the team arrived a few days ago and has been continuing their training sessions at Mkwakwani Stadium.
Clifford Mario Ndimbo, the Communications Officer of the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), recently confirmed that all domestic players have reported to camp.
Additionally, players based overseas, including Saimon Msuva, Novatus Miroshi, and Kelvin John, have also arrived in the country. The next step is for these players to join their teammates in the ongoing camp.
Ndimbo stressed the importance of this match, particularly given that Taifa Stars currently have six points in their group.
He highlighted the significance of the game in determining the team’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, stating that securing a good result is paramount.
“The team is in camp and continuing with intense training sessions. With seven days left to prepare, it’s crucial that we get everything right to give our best performance and fight for a place in the World Cup,” said Ndimbo.
Regarding the possibility of friendly matches to assess the team's form, Ndimbo mentioned that the coach will make the decision based on the remaining training days before the team heads to Morocco.
The squad for this crucial qualifier consists of 24 players, including Yakub Suleman, Ally Salim, Shomary Kapombe, Abdulazack Hamza, Mohamed Hussein, Kibu Denis, Yusuph Kagoma, Hussein Masaranga, Lusajo Mwaikenda, Iddy Selemani, Pascal Msindo, Fisal Salum, Dickson Job, Ibrahim Abdula, Mudathir Yahya, Clement Mzize, Mirajy Abdallah, Haki Mnoga, Novatus Miroshi, Charles Mmombwa, Saimon Msuva, Selemani Mwalimu, and Kelvin John.
This match represents a pivotal moment for Taifa Stars as they continue their journey toward World Cup qualification, with all eyes on their performance against Morocco.