Tanzania’s Taifa Stars are looking to make a statement at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. Following their debut in 1980 and a 39-year hiatus, the team is determined to showcase their growth and progress in domestic football.
With a surge in their domestic league, the Taifa Stars enter the tournament with heightened confidence, eager to make a mark on the continental stage.
Tanzanians are rallying behind the team, anticipating a breakthrough performance that will propel the nation to new heights in African football. The team aspires to surpass previous records and leave a lasting impression in the 2023 AFCON.
2023 AFCON matches
17 January 2024: Morocco v Tanzania
21 January 2024: Zambia v Tanzania
24 January 2024: Tanzania v DR Congo
Key players to watch
Mbwana Ally Samatta: A linchpin for PAOK in the Greek League, Samatta has showcased his prowess with two goals and two assists in 14 appearances this season in the Greek Super League. The 31-year-old striker, who has scored 21 goals in 69 appearances for the Taifa Stars, is poised to be a key contributor in the tournament. His leadership and goal-scoring abilities were evident in the 2019 AFCON, where, as captain, he scored and assisted for Tanzania.
Simon Msuva: With 21 goals in 86 appearances for Tanzania since his debut 22 years ago, Simon Msuva is a seasoned player with a wealth of experience. Having played for prominent clubs like Wydad AC and Young Africans, the 30-year-old forward featured in all three AFCON matches for Tanzania in 2019, scoring crucial goals. His goal-scoring prowess and experience make him an indispensable asset for the Taifa Stars.
Himid Mao Mkami: Adding a defensive anchor to the team, Himid Mao Mkami brings experience from his time with various African clubs. The 31-year-old defensive midfielder, with 66 caps and two goals for Tanzania, is set to make his second AFCON appearance after featuring in all three games during the 2019 edition. His defensive contributions and experience will be vital for the Taifa Stars in the tournament.
Coach Adel Amrouche: Guiding the team is the experienced 55-year-old coach Adel Amrouche. With managerial stints in countries like Libya, Botswana, Yemen, Burundi, and Kenya, Amrouche brings a wealth of experience to the Tanzanian side. Having recently named his final 25-man squad, the former Equatorial Guinea coach is ready to lead a promising Taifa Stars team into the 2023 AFCON, aiming to surprise many with their performance.
Team Statistics:
Appearances so far: 2
Best Results: Group stage in 1980 and 2019
Most capped player: Erasto Nyoni with 107 appearances
Captain: Mbwana Ally Samatta
Top scorer: Mrisho Ngasa with 25 goals in 100 appearances