Tanzania national soccer team (Taifa Stars) interim head coach Hemed ‘Morocco’ Suleiman has called for patience after his side managed to secure a single point in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers after a 0-0 draw against Ethiopia at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Wednesday.

Taifa Stars maintained a solid defensive shape throughout the game, but Ethiopia controlled possession and displayed composure on the ball. Both goalkeepers faced little pressure, as neither side created many clear-cut chances.

“Of course, it was a little bit tough. We started slowly but kept on progressing. We did not play well in the first half but we improved in the second half. We created chances, especially in the last twenty minutes, but unfortunately, we did not utilize them. That is football,” Morocco remarked as quoted by the Guardian.

“Ethiopia is a very strong team. It is difficult to play against a low-block side. We tried different combinations in midfield, but it didn’t work, so we shifted to the flanks.

“This is a team in transition. Most of the players are young, and they need time. We have to keep encouraging the young players to ensure they do well. I believe it is just a matter of time before this team succeeds.”

Tanzania’s best opportunity in the early stages of the match fell to forward Clement Mzize. Lusajo Mwaikenda made a dangerous run down the right flank and sent a well-placed cross into the box, but Mzize, a Young Africans forward, was unable to connect strongly enough to direct the ball toward the goal.