Dar es Salaam. Football fans in the city will be treated to a thrilling clash tomorrow when Azam FC take on JKT Tanzania in an NBC Premier League fixture at Major Isamuhyo Stadium.
Both teams are eyeing three points and have promised an entertaining battle.
The two sides played out a goalless draw in their meeting last season, but this time the stakes are higher as each side looks to make an early statement in the campaign.
Azam head coach Florent Ibenge exuded confidence, saying his team was ready and motivated.
“I have no pressure going into this game, even though JKT are strong. I will approach the match with joy because I love football,” Ibenge told reporters.
“Our preparations are complete and every player is determined to deliver three points.”
Midfielder Feisal Salum echoed his coach’s optimism, stressing that the squad had prepared thoroughly.
“As players, we are ready and confident. We know JKT have quality players, but our focus is on winning,” Salum said.
For JKT, head coach Ahmad Ally acknowledged Azam’s strength but insisted his side was equally determined.
“I respect Azam because they have good players and a strong technical bench. They are among the best teams in the country, so we will approach the match cautiously but with the ambition to win,” Ally said.
He revealed that only Said Hamisi would miss the fixture due to injury, while the rest of the squad was fit and focused.
“We are addressing a few mistakes we noticed in previous matches. Our target is to secure three points,” he added.
JKT captain Jafari Maneno said the players were ready to execute their coach’s instructions and urged fans to come out in numbers.
“We believe it will be a tough game, but with discipline and support from our fans, we can win,” said Maneno.
