Taifa Stars head coach Miguel Gamondi has admitted disappointment after Tanzania were held to a 1-1 draw by Uganda in their Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) Group C match, but says his attention is now firmly on the decisive fixture against Tunisia.
Tanzania looked on course for a hard-earned victory before Uganda struck a late equaliser, scoring just 10 minutes before the final whistle to deny Taifa Stars what would have been a historic win at the Afcon finals.
The match, played at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat, saw Tanzania dominate large spells, displaying high intensity, tactical discipline and confidence on the ball.
Taifa Stars created several scoring opportunities and largely controlled the tempo, but were punished for a momentary lapse in concentration at the back.
Speaking after the game, Gamondi said the result was frustrating given his team’s overall performance. He noted that while Tanzania played with energy and purpose, they failed to fully capitalise on their chances.
“We are a little disappointed because we did not win, but I believe we played a very good game with high intensity,” Gamondi said.
“In attack, we lost some balls and Uganda also created chances, but I think we adjusted well in the second half.”he added
The Argentine coach said a single mistake proved costly, allowing Uganda to score from a cross despite Tanzania’s dominance.
“We created chances, dominated the game and were dangerous, but one mistake led to the goal. We feel sorry for the Tanzanian people because we wanted this win, but this is a tough competition and we must continue working,” he said.
With the draw behind them, Gamondi said the focus has now shifted to Tanzania’s final group match against Tunisia, scheduled for tomorrow at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium, with kickoff set for 7pm East Africa Time. At the same time, Uganda will face Nigeria in the other Group C encounter at Fez Stadium.
“We are now focusing on the last group stage match against Tunisia,” Gamondi said. “We need to show our best again, like we did in the previous match, and fight for the best possible result.”
He also stressed the importance of long-term investment in the national team, saying Tanzania has no shortage of talent capable of competing at the highest level.
“Tanzania has many talented players who dream of succeeding internationally. With proper preparation, patience and support, this team can achieve strong results,” he said.
After two matches, Nigeria have already secured qualification from Group C with six points. Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda remain locked in a tight battle for the second spot in the knockout stage.
Taifa Stars must now secure a positive result against Tunisia to keep their Afcon campaign alive.