18/01/2024
Tanzania can win AFCON – Ababu Namwamba
By
Julius Jumah
January 18, 2024
117
Sports CS Ababu Namwamba has claimed that Tanzania can win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). [Photo/CBS Sports Golazo/Ababu Namwamba].
Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba claims that the Taifa Stars of Tanzania can win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, currently underway in Ivory Coast.
During his analysis on Kenya’s national broadcaster on Wednesday, January 17, Namwamba asserted that Taifa Stars initially considered one of the weakest teams in the tournament, could cause an upset and clinch the championship.
Namwamba stated, “Anything is possible in football. If recent history has taught us anything, it is that there are no more underdogs in football. I am East African. The East African in me is urging Tanzania, telling them, I believe you can put up a good fight.”
Tanzania can win AFCON - Ababu Namwamba
Sports CS Ababu Namwamba celebrates after Junior Stars beat Tanzania to qualify for the CECAFA U18 finals in December 2023. [Photo/Ababu Namwamba/Facebook].
Before Thursday’s 3-0 loss to Morocco, Tanzania had played six matches at the continental showpiece. Of these six, they managed only a draw (in 1980) and suffered five losses. A win still remains elusive.
In both the 1980 and 2019 editions, the East African nation finished at the bottom of the group. However, Namwamba is not allowing himself to be carried away by history, as he throws his support behind the neighbors.
“Everybody can pretty much beat everybody. No one gave Morocco a chance during the World Cup in Qatar, but they went all the way to the semi-finals. Nothing stops Tanzania from doing well,” remarked the Sports CS.
Tanzania can win AFCON - Ababu Namwamba
Taifa Stars of Tanzania suffered a 3-0 loss against Morocco in their Group F opener at the 2023 AFCON finals in Ivory Coast. [Photo/CBS Sports Golazo/X].
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