Tanzania Coach Calls for Perfect Game Against Nigeria
Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi has praised the quality of Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of their AFCON 2025 Group C match on Tuesday.
The Argentine-born coach said Tanzania must play almost perfectly if they want a chance against the 2013 African champions. He spoke at the official pre-match press conference before the game.
Gamondi admitted that Nigeria have one of the strongest attacks in African football and warned his players to stay focused at all times.
“You don’t need to introduce Nigeria’s attack,” he said. “When you see the quality of their players, you must give more than 100 per cent. One small mistake can cost you.”
Discipline and organisation key
The Tanzania coach said his team’s main focus will be good shape, discipline and organisation, especially against Nigerian players who compete at the highest level in Europe.
“The key for us is our shape, tactical discipline and organisation,” Gamondi explained.
“In games like this, there is no room for mistakes.”
Tanzania not afraid to attack
Despite Nigeria’s attacking strength, Gamondi said Tanzania will not defend all game. He stressed that his team wants to compete and attack when possible.
“Our mentality is not only to defend,” he said.
“We want to win the ball back and try to attack. We are here to compete with courage.”
Nigeria seen as favourites
Gamondi accepted that Nigeria are one of the favourites to win the tournament but said Tanzania are ready for the challenge.
“When you look at where Nigerian players play and their level, you see they are among the best teams in Africa,” he said.
He also spoke about Tanzania’s progress and said AFCON 2025 is a chance to test themselves against top teams.
“This is a very difficult group, with two of the five or six best teams in Africa,” he said.
“But we are not afraid. We are here to learn, improve and show the quality of Tanzanian players.”
No mental weakness in Nigeria
Gamondi dismissed the idea that Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup would affect them.
“I don’t think Nigeria are mentally affected,” he said.
“Great players forget mistakes quickly. I expect them to be strong and motivated.”
Belief remains strong
While Nigeria are favourites on paper, Gamondi said belief is still important.
“In football, anything is possible,” he said.
“Nobody can stop us from dreaming. If we avoid mistakes and give extra effort, we can do something good.”
Nigeria will face Tanzania at 6:30pm local time as the Super Eagles look to start their campaign strongly in their bid for a fourth AFCON title.
