Taifa Stars take on CAR in international build-up tie

Dar es Salaam. The national football team, Taifa Stars, plays today the Central African Republic (CAR) and the World Cup governing body (FIFA) international structure at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The match, which starts at 7pm, is expected to be exciting as both teams are likely to seek victory to improve their FIFA rankings.

The Central African Republic is currently in 130th place, while Tanzania is ranked 132nd in the Fifa rankings last month.

In an interview with The Citizen yesterday, Taifa Stars head coach Kim Poulsen said his players are in the right spirit in the friendly match for the CAR.

“Everything is fine at camp because every player is capable of confronting the Central African Republic. They are simply in good shape and I believe the Tanzans see an improved performance,” said Poulsen.

He said they had trained well before the meeting and they believe they will face strong opposition from their opponents.

“Our intention is to continue to rise in the Fifa rankings, as you know, most players in the squad are experienced and know their commitments. We are aware that our opponents have also prepared well for the match, but I dare to win. “Everyone here is excited about the match,” he said.

Taifa stars are expected to be among their two key players namely captain Mbwana Samatta and Simon Msuva.

Samatta, who plays for Belgian side Royal Antwerp FC, arrived on Monday, while Msuva has been at the team’s camp since day one.

According to the schedule of the international build-ups, on Saturday the Central African Republic will fight against Sudan at 16:00 and later at 19:00 against the Taifa Stars against Botswana.

The last international match of the Taifa Stars will take place next Tuesday against Sudan, starting at 7 pm. Fans interested in participating in all matches will have to pay Sh5,000 each for VIP B and C while orange, blue and green seats will be sold for Sh3,000.