Coach Bakari Shime of the National Women’s Team (Twiga Stars) expressed confidence in his team’s preparations for their upcoming first leg match against Ivory Coast at Yamoussoukro Stadium this Friday.

Following ten days of training in Dar es Salaam, the Twiga Stars traveled to Ivory Coast on Tuesday morning. In a press interview, Coach Shime emphasized their determination to qualify for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) next year, reflecting on the valuable lessons learned from past qualifiers.

“Our goal in this competition is to secure a spot in the WAFCON finals, and we feel well-prepared. We’ve spent around ten days in camp, focusing on equipping our players with the skills necessary to succeed against Ivory Coast in both matches,” he stated.

After the first match in Ivory Coast, Tanzania will host the return leg on Tuesday at Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam.

Shime highlighted that the squad comprises both experienced and young players who are eager to represent their country with pride.

Discussing the factors contributing to the success of women’s football in Tanzania, Shime pointed to the players’ morale and commitment to the team’s objectives. “We have a dedicated group of players who are motivated and understand their roles. Additionally, the support from the government and sports stakeholders has been crucial in providing the necessary resources for the growth of women’s football,” he noted.

He also mentioned the importance of grassroots programs in both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, which are vital for the success of women’s football. Furthermore, he acknowledged the impact of well-trained coaches working at both school and club levels, which helps develop players’ careers.

The 2024 WAFCON finals will be held in Morocco for the second consecutive time, with South Africa currently holding the championship title.