Police Tanzania head coach Mbwana Makata says the club’s dream of returning to the NBC Premier League will be decided in the next 180 minutes as his side prepares for the decisive promotion playoff.
The team secured a place in the playoff after overcoming Mbeya Kwanza in the Championship preliminary stage, winning both legs to move a step closer to reclaiming its top-flight status.
Makata said the technical bench has now turned its attention to the final hurdle, with preparations underway for a two-leg playoff against either Mbeya City or Tanzania Prisons.
He expressed confidence in his players’ readiness, saying the immediate target is to secure a positive result in the first leg, particularly if the match is played at home, before heading into the return fixture with an advantage.
“We have 180 important minutes ahead of us to achieve our objective of returning to the Premier League. We must remain focused, prepare thoroughly and give our best in both matches,” Makata said.
The coach added that every detail will matter at this stage, as the team seeks to combine tactical discipline, determination and consistency to overcome the final challenge.
Police Tanzania Information Officer Inspector Frank Lukwaro said the squad has already put the preliminary playoff stage behind it and is now fully focused on earning promotion.
Lukwaro said the team is prepared to face any opponent, insisting that a strong start will be key to their promotion ambitions.
“We are now preparing for the promotion playoff. We are ready to face whoever comes our way and our aim is to begin with a victory at home so that we put ourselves in a stronger position to return to the Premier League,” he said.
With promotion within reach, Police Tanzania will be looking to make the most of the final two matches as they chase a return to Tanzania’s top-flight football.
