DAR ES SALAAM: AZAM FC head coach Florent Ibenge hailed his side’s resilience and composure after a crucial CAF Confederation Cup victory that reignited their group-stage ambitions, while fellow Tanzanian outfit Singida Black Stars vowed to keep fighting despite a damaging defeat on the road.
Az a m secured a vital 1–0 win over Nairobi United at the New Aman Complex in Zanzibar, a result that lifted them to six points from two victories and breathed new life into their bid for a knockoutstage place.
The outcome eased pressure on the squad after a demanding run of fixtures and injected belief ahead of the decisive final matches. “This was a very important victory for us,” Ibenge said after Sunday’s match.
“With six points, we are still alive in the group and ready to fight for our chances in the next game.”
The Congolese coach acknowledged the challenge posed by stubborn opposition, conceding that Azam had to dig deep to get the job done.
“It was not an easy game, but we wanted the three points and we got them. That’s what matters at this stage,” he said.
While Azam managed the contest intelligently after striking early, Ibenge admitted there remains work to be done— particularly in front of goal. “We created many chances but were not efficient enough.
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At this level, you must be clever, control the game and take your opportunities,” he added.
Elsewhere, Singida Black Stars slipped to a narrow 2–1 defeat away to Congo’s AS Otoho on Sunday, a setback that leaves them bottom of the group with four points, level with Stellenbosch. CR Belouizdad lead the section with nine points, while Otoho sit second on six.
Despite the blow, Singida head coach Othman Najjar refused to abandon hope of a historic quarter-final berth.
“It is true our situation is difficult,” Najjar admitted, “but we still have two matches to play—one at home and one away. If we get positive results, we can move forward.”
Singida next host group leaders CR Belouizdad at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar on Sunday before concluding their campaign away to Stellenbosch on February 15, with their continental fate finely balanced.