Eswatini and Tanzania are set to face off in a crucial COSAFA Cup Group C fixture. The match, to be held at Free State Stadium, is a must-win for Eswatini if they hope to advance to the knockout stages. Tanzania, already eliminated, will be looking to salvage some pride.
Eswatini's Knockout Hopes
Eswatini currently sits second in their group, having secured a single point from their opening match – a goalless draw against Madagascar. They are three points behind Madagascar, who have completed their group matches. A victory against Tanzania is essential, and the margin of victory could be crucial in determining their fate.
The team will be looking to repeat their success from their previous encounter with Tanzania in the 2015 edition of the competition, where they secured a 1-0 win. However, this time, style points might matter just as much as the result.
Tanzania's Team News and Challenges
Tanzania, coached by Hemed ‘Morocco’ Suleiman, will be without two key players for the match. Midfielder Faisal Salum and goalkeeper Yakoub Suleiman are both ruled out due to injuries sustained in their previous match against Madagascar. Coach Suleiman acknowledged the blow but emphasized the need for the team to adapt quickly.
Tanzania currently sits at the bottom of Group C with zero points after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Madagascar. The match against Eswatini is essentially a formality for them, but they will be looking to end their campaign on a positive note.
Defender's Optimism
Despite the early setback, Tanzanian defender Lusajo Mwaikenda voiced optimism within the camp. He stressed the team's determination to bounce back and emphasized their hard work and recovery since the first match. Mwaikenda's confidence reflects a squad that remains focused, hungry, and united in the face of adversity – traits that could prove vital in what is now a must-win encounter for Eswatini.
Prediction
Given Eswatini's need for a victory and Tanzania's injury woes, Eswatini are the favourites to win this encounter. However, Tanzania will be eager to put up a fight and avoid ending their campaign without a point. The match promises to be a tense and exciting affair, with both teams giving their all.