Sports
“We’re here to win every game” – Salum sets bold target for Tanzania
Faisal Salum says Tanzania’s perfect start to the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 has lifted the nation’s spirit and set the tone for a campaign of high ambition.
The midfielder, popularly known as “Fay Toto,” delivered a standout performance in Tanzania’s 2-0 win over Burkina Faso at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday.
His commanding display earned him the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award, crowning a night he described as “the perfect start.”
“This victory is the perfect start and makes all Tanzanians feel proud and happy,” said Salum.
“Our goal is to win every match, especially since the tournament is being held on our home ground. It is important that we prove ourselves and remain consistent in every game.”
Master of midfield
Salum’s impact was felt across the pitch. The 27-year-old Azam FC player was the heartbeat of the Taifa Stars, linking defence to attack, dictating tempo, and calmly navigating pressure in tight spaces.
His sharp passing and tactical awareness gave Tanzania a dominant grip on midfield, and he was instrumental in both goals. He initiated the sequence that led to the first-half penalty, converted by Abdul Sobo, and played a key role in the buildup to Mohammed Hussein’s header that sealed the result.
The performance cemented his reputation as the team’s creative spark and tactical leader — a role he embraced with maturity and poise.
Salum’s rise signals intent
For Tanzania, this win was about more than points. It was a statement of readiness, belief, and purpose.
Salum’s display serves as a benchmark not only for himself but also for the Taifa Stars’ aspirations. With the nation co-hosting CHAN 2024 alongside Kenya and Uganda, expectations are sky-high, and performances like Salum’s fan the flames of national ambition.
“This match is just the beginning,” he said. “We’ve shown what we are capable of, but there’s still work to do. Every game will be a new challenge, and we must keep improving.”
Man of the Match – and beyond
Salum’s Man of the Match award capped a performance that could set the stage for a breakthrough tournament. His vision, discipline, and control made him the clear standout on opening night.
If he continues at this level, the midfielder could become one of the tournament’s defining stars — not only for his talent but also for his ability to elevate those around him.
“It’s always an honour to be recognised,” he said of the award. “But it only matters because we won as a team. That’s the most important thing.”
Fans dare to dream
The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium roared with approval as the final whistle confirmed Tanzania’s first three points in Group B. For fans, it was a night to remember — not just for the win, but for the style and conviction with which it was earned.
This is the first time the CHAN tournament is being hosted jointly by Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya. For the Tanzanian faithful, it adds extra significance — and Salum knows what it means to carry that expectation.
“We felt the fans behind us tonight,” he said. “They give us energy, and we want to make them proud every time we play.”
Bright beginnings, bigger ambitions
Tanzania’s victory sends them to the top of Group B and sets a positive tone for the rest of their campaign. The performance showed a balanced team with growing attacking fluidity and strong midfield control — qualities they will need in tougher matches ahead.
As for Salum, the opening night showed that he is not just a cog in the system — he is a leader on the pitch.
With his confidence growing and the crowd behind him, the Taifa Stars midfielder is setting the pace — and the dream — for what could be a historic CHAN tournament for Tanzania.
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