Coach demands focus as Azam FC eyes success in NBC PL, ASFC

By Michael Mwebe , The Guardian
Published at 04:45 PM Apr 02 2024

Azam FC head coach, Yousouph Dabo.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AZAM FC
Azam FC head coach, Yousouph Dabo.

AZAM FC's head coach Youssouph Dabo has begun honing his squad in anticipation of the forthcoming matches in the NBC Premier League.

The Senegalese gaffer is eyeing a triumphant campaign with his club, starting with their NBC Premier League clash against Namungo FC and Azam Sports Federation Cup game against Mtibwa Sugar. 

Reflecting on their recent friendly encounter against Zimamoto FC, Dabo emphasized the significance of the match not merely for the scoreline but for the invaluable insights gleaned.

Despite emerging victorious in their friendly outing against Zimamoto FC- recording a commendable 2-1 win, Dabo remained steadfast in his commitment to address the team’s deficiencies, recognizing that consistent improvement is pivotal to their pursuit of crucial points in every fixture.

“The friendly fixture against Zimamoto FC was of utmost importance. We don’t solely focus on the outcome, but rather on the tactical and strategic advancements imparted during our training sessions.”

“Our overarching objective is to excel in the imminent challenges, commencing with the NBC Premier League encounter against Namungo FC,” Dabo stated with conviction.

Dabo highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach to improving performance, stressing the need for alertness and teamwork in all aspects of the game.

He emphasized the team’s goal of taking advantage of scoring chances while also staying strong defensively to stop the other team from scoring.

“Our primary aim is to foster unwavering attentiveness among our players, both in defensive solidity and attacking prowess. We must capitalize on available chances while ensuring our defensive fortitude remains strong,” Dabo added.

Dabo expressed hope about the team’s fitness, feeling happy that some injured players are back in light training. This shows that the team is getting stronger as they prepare for the tough final matches of the league season.

“I’m exceedingly pleased to witness the return of some of our sidelined players to training. This development instills a sense of optimism as we approach the pivotal and demanding phase of the league. Notably, defender  Abdallah Kheri has commenced fitness drills, alongside Sospeter Bajana and Franklin Navarro, who, despite initially facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, have displayed remarkable progress in their rehabilitation,” Dabo noted.

While they get ready for the match against Namungo FC, Azam FC keeps practicing intensively at the Azam Complex Stadium at Chamazi, Dar es Salaam.

They are working on their strategies and getting physically fit for the game. The match will be played at Majaliwa Stadium in Ruangwa on April 13.

Azam FC has enjoyed a successful season so far, currently occupying the second spot in the NBC Premier League standings, just behind the leaders, Young Africans SC. Having played 21 games, Azam FC boasts an impressive record of 14 wins, five draws, and two losses.

In their latest fixture before the international break, Azam FC secured a vital 2-1 victory against Young Africans at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, injecting a renewed sense of optimism and bolstering their championship aspirations for the 2023/224 season.

One of Azam FC's standout attributes this season has been their consistency in finding the back of the net, having scored a total of 47 goals while conceding a mere 16.

Spearheading their attacking prowess is midfielder Feisal Salum, who jointly leads the scoring charts in the NBC Premier League with 13 goals and five assists. Yanga’s midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki has also scored 13 goals.

Additionally, winger Kipre Junior has contributed significantly with six goals and seven assists to his name.