Azam FC and Fountain Gate have secured their places in the final of the NBC U20 Premier League, set to take place on May 29 at the Azam Complex in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam.
Azam booked their spot in the final after edging Kagera Sugar with a narrow 1-0 victory in a tightly contested semifinal played yesterday at their home ground.
Fountain Gate also advanced after a 2-1 win over Kengold in the other semifinal, also held at the Azam Complex.
The two sides will now clash in what promises to be an exciting final as they battle for the U20 championship title. Meanwhile, the third-place playoff will feature Kagera Sugar against Kengold.
Speaking after his side’s semifinal win, Azam U20 head coach Kassim Liogope expressed pride in his team’s performance and said all focus has now shifted to preparing for the final.
“Our goal was to perform well in the semifinal, and the boys delivered. We made the most of our chances and secured the win we needed to make it to the final,” said Liogope.
“I also want to commend our opponents for a strong showing. It was a tough game, and credit goes to my players for their commitment and determination, which made the difference today.”he added
Kagera Sugar U20 head coach Seif Rashid acknowledged his team’s missed opportunities as the main reason they fell short in the semifinal.
“We created several chances but failed to convert them, and that ultimately cost us the game and a place in the final,” Rashid explained.
“Overall, it’s been a competitive and well-fought league. Every team came prepared, and although we didn’t reach the final, we’re now focused on finishing strong by securing third place.”he added
