Tanzania head coach Hemed Suleiman Ali has acknowledged the tough competition in Group C of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 which features regional rivals Uganda.
Drawn alongside Uganda, Nigeria, and Tunisia, the Taifa Stars are set to face familiar opposition in the Cranes, a rivalry that has grown over the years and will be further intensified as the two nations prepare to co-host AFCON 2027.
Suleiman believes the match against Uganda will be crucial for Tanzania’s chances of making history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time.
Speaking after the draw in Rabat, the Tanzanian coach emphasized the importance of preparation, stating that every team in AFCON presents a unique challenge.
“We are ready. We saw who we are going to play with. I think it’s a tough group, but it’s tough for all of them,” Suleiman said.
“There is no easy group. If you have qualified for this stage of the competition, you have to prepare. We know who we are facing, and we know how we will prepare for them,” he added.
The meeting between Uganda and Tanzania will be a high-stakes clash, given their long footballing history and shared ambitions.
The two nations have faced off in numerous East African derbies, and this AFCON showdown will offer a glimpse into what fans can expect when they unite as hosts in 2027.
While Nigeria and Tunisia present formidable challenges as former champions, Suleiman remains confident that Tanzania can compete at the highest level.
The Taifa Stars have yet to win a match in their previous three AFCON appearances, but with strong preparation, they aim to change that narrative in Morocco.
“This is a great opportunity for us to represent our people well at this tournament,” Suleiman added. “There is no other way – we have to prepare well and be ready to compete.”
