DAR ES SALAAM: AZAM FC Assistant Coach Bruno Ferry is anticipating a significant response from his players as they prepare to face JKT Tanzania in their Premier League season opener at Major General Isamuhyo Stadium in Dar es Salaam today.
This match comes on the heels of Azam’s recent exit from the CAF Champions League, where they were eliminated by Rwanda’s APR with a 2-1 aggregate defeat.
During a pre-match briefing, Ferry emphasised the importance of starting the season strongly, noting that the outcome of the first game can set the tone for the entire campaign.
“After our dis appointment in the Champions League, we expect a positive re action from the players,” Ferry said.
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“It’s crucial that we approach this game with a winning mindset and a fighting spirit.
Our opponents are a good team with a new coach, which presents a challenge for us to see how well we can bounce back from the recent setback” he added.
Ferry also highlighted that, with their exit from the Champions League, Azam’s focus is now solely on the Premier League.
“We aim to surpass our achievements from last season,” he added.
“We know it will be a tough season, as other teams have made strong signings, but we must clear our minds and strive for better.”
On his part JKT Tanzania coach Hamady Ally acknowledged the challenge of facing a strong Azam side.
“Azam has invested heavily in their squad and is coming off a Champions League campaign, so they’re not a team to be underestimated,” Ally said.
“We’ve developed a secret strategy to contain them, and while I can’t disclose details, I’m confident it will help us secure good result at home.” He disclosed.
Ally also noted the addition of veteran striker John Bocco, which he believes will bring valuable experience to JKT Tanzania’s squad.
Speaking of the match JKT’s midfielder Hassan Dilunga echoed this sentiment, expressing the team’s readiness and excitement for the match.
“It’s our first home game, and we’re eager to demonstrate our quality against Azam FC,” Dilunga remarked.
On the other hand, Azam’s Hamis Yassin reiterated the team’s prepared ness and the significance of a strong start.
“We need a solid result to boost our morale after the recent disappointment in the Champions League,” Yassin said, also calling on fans to support the team enthusiastically.
With both teams eager to make a strong start, today’s match promises to be an ex citing opening to the Premier League season.
Last season, Azam secured a 2-0 victory when the teams met at the same venue, leaving fans eager to see if history will repeat itself.
Meanwhile the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) has suspended Jamhuri Stadium in Dodoma from hosting league matches until it becomes safe for players.
It becomes the first venue to be suspended this season despite being one of few stadiums fitted with floodlights to embrace night matches.
A statement released by the board’s Information Department yesterday indicated that the pitch of the stadium is lacking desirable status to stage league fixtures.
The board has since directed Dodoma Jiji FC to seek alternative home venue among those passed fit to accommodate league games of the season.
Also, the board remind ed all clubs to ensure that they keep well their venues throughout the season or else, they will be rendered unfit to host league encounters.
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