Taifa Stars confident despite tough CHAN draw, NMB bank donates Sh30 million

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania national football team, Taifa Stars, are gearing up for a challenging journey in the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, as they prepare to face Morocco on Friday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm East African Time, with the stakes high as the tournament moves into the knockout stage.

Victory against Morocco would see Taifa Stars advance to face the winner between the top-ranked team in Group D and the second-placed team in Group C, a scenario that promises tough competition ahead.

According to the group standings, Sudan, Senegal, and Congo Brazzaville remain strong contenders to finish at the top or second place in Group D, while Uganda, Algeria, and South Africa are likely to progress from Group C.

These teams, all boasting strong squads and experienced players, will pose significant challenges for any side advancing to the next round.

Despite the daunting path, Taifa Stars remain confident under the leadership of head coach Hemed Suleiman, popularly known as “Morocco.”

Speaking ahead of the match, Suleiman expressed faith in his players’ readiness and commitment. “We are in the knockout stage, which means we must be very careful.

Once you lose, you are out. My players are prepared to deliver their best,” he said. Suleiman emphasized that his squad is fearless and focused, acknowledging that while the road to the title will be difficult, the team has shown strong character and skill throughout the tournament.

 “We are ready to face any team in this competition. Our players have shown great standard, and we have full confidence in their ability to fight hard, no matter the opponent,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Government of Tanzania has extended its gratitude and congratulations to NMB Bank for its generous contribution of Sh30m in support of the national football team, Taifa Stars.

Speaking during the official handover ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, praised NMB for its timely support and called on other stakeholders, companies, organizations, and both public and private institutions to follow NMB’s example in backing President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts to promote sports in the country.

The President has pledged a Sh1m “Goli la Mama” reward for each goal scored by Taifa Stars during the tournament. Msigwa received the symbolic cheque from NMB Bank in the presence of Neema Msitha, Executive Secretary of the National Sports Council (NSC).

Of the Sh30m donated, Sh20m will be used to purchase 10,000 tickets for fans to attend the match and cheer on the team, while the remaining Sh10m will serve as a motivational bonus for the players.

“NMB has demonstrated true patriotism and support for our national team. Please convey the Government’s appreciation to NMB CEO Ruth Zaipuna. The Ministry will recognize her as one of the country’s outstanding sports contributors,” said  Msigwa. Earlier, NMB’s Head of Sales and Branch Network,  Donatus Richard, said the bank was inspired by Taifa Stars’ achievements and felt compelled to support the team’s efforts and national pride.

“We are here to show our support for Taifa Stars. Our contribution is divided into two parts: Sh20m for fan tickets and Sh10 million as a motivational package for the players,” said Richard.

 He expressed hope that the donation would boost the players’ morale and performance, helping them progress through the tournament.