Exclusive: "AFCON 2025 Qualification Will Give Tanzania Confidence as 2027 Co-Hosts" - Himid Mao

Mkami attributed his confidence to the team's preparedness and morale, emphasizing that they are geared up to capitalize on the 2025 AFCON experience as vital preparation for co-hosting the 2027 edition alongside Kenya and Uganda.

Tanzania's Taifa Stars were considered one of the surprise packages heading into the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire, given their relative inexperience with only two previous AFCON appearances (1980 and 2019).

The Taifa Stars' 2023 AFCON campaign in Ivory Coast ended prematurely, with only two points garnered in Group F. However, considering the daunting opposition from powerhouses Morocco, DR Congo, and Zambia, their group-stage exit was hardly surprising.

However, veteran playmaker Himid Mao has set his sights on making history. In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, Mao expressed his confidence that Tanzania can qualify for consecutive AFCON tournaments for the first time.

To achieve this feat, he believes the team must secure all six points in their remaining two qualifying matches against Ethiopia and Guinea in Group H.

Mao emphasized that he and his teammates are primed to overcome the complexities in their group and seal a spot in Morocco. "We're ready to make history," Mao declared, as Tanzania seeks to defy the odds and reach the 2025 AFCON.

TOUGH SECOND HALF IN DAR ES SALAAM

Tanzania is familiar with the pressure of late AFCON qualifying series. Having secured their 2023 AFCON spot on the final day, edging out Uganda and Niger, Hemed Suleiman's men now fae another daunting task.

Trailing Guinea by two points in Group H, Tanzania must punch above their weight in their remaining matches. First, they face Ethiopia on Match Day 5, followed by a crucial showdown with Guinea at home on Match Day 6.

Veteran playmaker Himid Mao reflects on past setbacks, particularly the double-leg encounter against DR Congo on Match Day 3 and 4. 'We should have taken something from those games,' Mkami lamented, citing the heartbreaking 2-0 loss at Dar es Salaam's Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium.

Meschack Elia's two second-half goals sealed Tanzania's fate, denying them vital points. Mkami believes those dropped points could prove pivotal but remains focused on the task ahead. With six points still up for grabs, Tanzania's AFCON destiny hangs in the balance.

"We delivered an outstanding performance against the DRC Leopards on home soil. Despite dominating possession in the first half, the lead eluded us. However, we're determined to bounce back and win our remaining group matches, securing the six points needed for qualification." said Egyptian Premier League side El Gaish Midfielder.

"To our fans, the journey doesn't matter; it's about reaching the 2025 AFCON. We're eager to boost our confidence and compete against Africa's elite. With the nation's confidence in us, we're ready to put past struggles behind and make Tanzania proud." he mentioned from the team's camp in Kinshasa as they prepare to face Ethiopia.

A WILLING SQUAD IS ENOUGH

For veteran midfielder Himid Mao, who has dedicated over a decade to the Tanzanian national team, passion and a winning mentality remain the driving forces.

Now 32, Mkami insists the Taifa Stars are laser-focused on their upcoming matches against Ethiopia and Guinea, determined to bring joy to the Tanzanian people.

"Qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations would be a monumental achievement for our nation and squad. As a veteran among a young team, I understand the significance of this opportunity. Participating in the AFCON will exponentially boost their careers, exposing them to an unparalleled atmosphere and experience" he remarked.

"We're intensely focused and resolute in our mission to win our remaining matches. We're driven to succeed not just for ourselves, but for our coach, fans, domestic league, and every Tanzanian who is passionate about football. It won't be easy, but I firmly believe that a united, determined group can overcome any obstacle.