As the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2024 draws near, Tanzania is ready to make waves in the continental competition.
Under the leadership of Coach Jaruph Juma, the Tanzanian national beach soccer team is gearing up for their third appearance at the prestigious event.
With a challenging Group A lineup that includes tournament hosts Egypt, seasoned contenders Morocco, and debutants Ghana, the team is bracing for an intense battle on the sands of Hurghada.
Coach Juma’s confidence in his squad is unwavering. In an exclusive interview, he shared that the journey to qualification was relatively smooth for Tanzania, thanks to Uganda’s withdrawal.
However, he knows the real test lies ahead, starting with a thrilling opening match against Morocco on October 19.
Morocco’s wealth of experience poses a significant challenge, but Juma believes Tanzania is prepared to deliver one of the standout performances of the tournament.
Reflecting on the strength of their group, Juma acknowledges the unique challenge posed by each team. Egypt will have the advantage of playing on home soil, while Morocco boasts a track record of success in the competition.
Ghana, though unfamiliar, remains an unpredictable force. Each match, he says, will require a tailored approach, and his team is ready to adapt to the different styles of play they will encounter.
Tanzania’s preparations for the tournament have been rigorous, with a focus on sharpening individual skills and enhancing tactical awareness. Beyond aiming for victories, the team is also keen to contribute to the growth of beach soccer across Africa.
Juma views this tournament as a platform not only to compete but also to inspire further development of the sport in the region.
The primary goal for Tanzania in this competition is clear: qualification for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025. Such an achievement would mark a historic milestone for the country, and the team is determined to make it a reality.
Despite the challenges of integrating a number of new players into the squad, Juma remains optimistic about their potential. He is confident that the blend of fresh talent and experienced players will work in Tanzania’s favor, with everyone eager to leave their mark on the tournament.
Coach Juma also touched on the challenges they’ve faced during their preparations. Incorporating new players into the fold has been a demanding task, but the team has made significant strides in creating cohesion. The veterans on the team have played a crucial role in guiding the newcomers, and Juma is certain they are ready to perform at the highest level.
As Tanzania prepares to face off against some of Africa’s best, Juma is well aware of the overall growth of beach soccer across the continent. While there has been noticeable progress, the sport still faces hurdles such as the need for greater recognition and more opportunities for competition. Nonetheless, he remains hopeful that tournaments like this will continue to elevate the game’s profile.
Tanzanian fans hold a special place in Juma’s heart, and he expresses deep gratitude for their continued support. He calls on them to rally behind the team, as their encouragement fuels the players’ determination to succeed. With the pride of the nation at stake, the team is committed to making Tanzania proud on the continental stage.
As for the conditions in Egypt, Juma and his team have been preparing diligently. While the sand in Egypt presents a slightly different texture, the Tanzanian squad sees this as an opportunity to capitalize on speed and agility. With their preparations nearing completion, all eyes are on Tanzania as they set out to make history at the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2024.
