Mwanza Queens are set for the inaugural national women’s football tournament, Taifa Cup, kicking off at CCM Kirumba Stadium here on Thursday.
The tournament officially opens with a match between hosts Mwanza Queen and Mara Queens. The two teams will meet again in two weeks’ time and the winner of the twolegged encounter will qualify for the second round.
Mwanza Regional Women’s Football Association, Secretary General, Hawa Bajanguo told the ‘Daily News’ yesterday the team is well prepared for the tournament and urged Mwanza residents to turn up in big numbers to cheer up their team and support the inaugural event.
“Mwanza Queens are in great shape after undergoing intensive training at Mirongo grounds twice a day. They’re fit and the spirit is high ahead of the opener,” she said.
Bajanguo said the team consists of 24 players, who have been selected from Magu, Sengerema, Ilemela and Nyamagana districts.
She named the players as Anna Mathias, Yulitha Masanyiwa, Esther Mayalla, Elieth Edward, Veronica John, Teddy John, Zamda Suleiman, Wisala Julius, Jamila Ally, Mwamvua Seif, Amisa Athuman, Nabila Ahmad, Neema Mang’anga, Grace Dismas, Anita Stanslaus, Nyangi Kiracha, Dacklina John and Averine Issa.
Mwanza Queens played a friendly match against Simiyu Queens of Simiyu Region and won 4-0 at Mabatini grounds. The goals were scored by Yulitha, Teddy, Amisa and Jamila.
However, Bajanguo said the team was facing financial hardship to cater for needs such as providing transport fares to players, drinking water, balls, jerseys and First Aid kits.
She begged parents to allow their children to come and participate in the competition. Mwanza Queens are coached by former national soccer team, Taifa Stars, assistant coach, Sylvester Marsh, who is assisted by Nicholas Mhando.
BY ALEXANDER SANGA, Tanzania Daily News
