MOROCCO: TANZANIA remain optimistic about reaching the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage after a 1-1 draw with Uganda on Saturday left Group C open ahead of the final round of matches.
The Taifa Stars have one point from two games, having lost 2-1 to Nigeria before sharing the points with Uganda.
They conclude their group campaign against Tunisia tomorrow, with qualification still within reach.
Nigeria sealed progression on Saturday with a 3-2 win over Tunisia to move to six points and confirm a place in the knockout stage.
One remaining Group C berth will be contested by Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda.
Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Paul Makonda said Tanzania’s performances showed enough promise to justify belief going into the decisive fixture.
“The players worked hard and showed discipline, even against physically strong opponents. This was not an easy group, but the team has demonstrated character and determination,” Makonda said.
Makonda acknowledged disappointment at not securing a win against Uganda but said the draw had kept Tanzania’s hopes alive.
“Everyone wanted victory and that is natural, but this result means the competition is still open. What matters now is staying focused and finishing strongly in the final match,” he said.
ALSO READ: Coach Gamondi confident in Taifa Stars’ potential
He added that the team continued to enjoy strong backing from both the government and supporters at home.
“The government is with you and the people of Tanzania are fully behind the team. We believe they can deliver a result that will make the nation proud,” Makonda said.
Uganda, also on one point, face already-qualified Nigeria in their final group match, while goal difference and head-to-head results could decide the standings if teams finish level.
The final Group C matches will be played simultaneously on Monday, when the last knockout-stage place will be determined.