DAR ES SALAAM: THE journey to greatness is never completed in one giant leap. It is built one step, one match and one victory at a time.
As Tanzania’s Twiga Stars prepare for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, they should embrace one simple philosophy: take each game as it comes, but never stop believing that something special is possible.
Drawn alongside defending champions South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, Tanzania faces a demanding group. The opening match against South Africa on July 27 will be a stern examination, but it should not be viewed as the match that defines the tournament. It is only the first chapter.
A positive start lays the foundation for everything that follows. The mission should be clear. First, focus on earning points in the opening match. Then shift attention to the next opponent. One goal at a time. One match at a time. Qualify for the knockout stage first.
Once there, reset the target and fight for another victory. Football rewards teams that remain disciplined, patient and united throughout the competition. Every player must understand that every tackle, every pass and every decision matters.
Success is built not only through collective effort but also through individual responsibility. Every member of the squad has a role to play. When individuals perform with confidence and commitment, the team becomes stronger. There is every reason for Tanzanians to believe.
The country’s football is steadily rising. The Taifa Stars recently broke new ground by reaching the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time.
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Tanzanite Queens have qualified for the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup, while Serengeti Boys reached the final of this year’s CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations and finished with silver after another inspiring campaign that also secured World Cup qualification. These achievements prove that Tanzanian football can compete with the continent’s best.
Twiga Stars now have their own opportunity to write history. Reaching the semifinals would not only guarantee a medal opportunity but also secure qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. That dream is within reach, provided the team refuses to look too far ahead and instead wins today’s battle before thinking about tomorrow.
The nation stands behind Twiga Stars. Play with courage, discipline and belief. Respect every opponent, fear none and remember that every great achievement begins with a single positive step.