Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan hosted the Taifa Stars players and their technical bench for a state luncheon at State House in Dar es Salaam following the team’s historic performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The luncheon, held on Saturday, January 10, came days after the national team returned home to a hero’s welcome after making history by reaching the AFCON knockout stage for the first time ever.
Taifa Stars Make History at AFCON 2025
Tanzania defied expectations at AFCON 2025 by advancing to the Round of 16, marking their best-ever performance at the continental tournament.
Coached by Miguel Gamondi, the Taifa Stars were drawn in a tough Group C, where they lost to Nigeria before holding Uganda and Tunisia to draws. Despite failing to record a win, the team advanced as one of the best third-placed sides with two points.
Their AFCON journey ended in the Round of 16 after a narrow 1-0 loss to hosts Morocco, a match in which Tanzania put up a disciplined and courageous display, conceding just one goal against the Atlas Lions.
“I Watched Every Minute” — Samia Suluhu
Speaking during the luncheon, President Samia praised the players for raising the profile of Tanzanian football across Africa.
She revealed that she personally watched the matches, describing the Morocco clash as emotionally intense.
“These achievements are a source of great pride for our nation. They show that Tanzanian football is rising in quality and competitiveness across Africa,” she said.
The President added that watching the team battle against the host nation was nerve-racking, noting how emotionally invested she was throughout the match.
Special Plane and Heroic Reception
Following their AFCON exit, President Samia ordered a special plane to fly the team back home. The Taifa Stars landed at Julius Nyerere International Airport to a massive crowd of cheering fans, marking one of the most memorable football homecomings in Tanzania’s history.
Focus Shifts to AFCON 2027
President Samia also turned attention to the future, rallying Tanzanians to prepare for AFCON 2027, which will be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
She stressed the need for heavy investment in grassroots football, local leagues, and regular competitive matches to help players gain experience ahead of the tournament.
“For us to perform even better in AFCON 2027, we must invest in our players and ensure they get enough competitive exposure at home,” she sai
More Recognition for Tanzanian Sports Excellence
During the event, President Samia also recognised other sporting achievements, including marathon star Alphonce Simbu, who made history by becoming the first Tanzanian to win gold at the World Athletics Championships, claiming victory in the men’s marathon in Tokyo.
A Turning Point for Tanzania Football
Despite not winning a match at AFCON 2025, Tanzania’s qualification for the knockout rounds stands as a major milestone. Finishing third in their group, the Taifa Stars proved that progress is possible and that the country is steadily closing the gap with Africa’s football giants.
As preparations begin for AFCON 2027, Tanzania’s historic AFCON 2025 campaign may well be remembered as the moment Taifa Stars announced themselves on the continental stage.
