AFCON 2025: ‘We are not here only to defend’ – Tanzania coach warns Super Eagles
Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi has issued a stern warning ahead of his side’s AFCON 2025 Group C opener against Nigeria, insisting his players must be flawless to avoid being punished by the Super Eagles.
Speaking at the official pre-match press conference, the Argentine tactician acknowledged Nigeria’s quality on the continental stage, stressing that matches against elite opposition leave no room for errors.
Nigeria’s firepower demands perfection
Gamondi described the Super Eagles as one of Africa’s most dangerous attacking teams, pointing to the quality and experience within their squad.
“You don’t need to introduce the attacking force of Nigeria. When you see the quality of their players, you need to give more than 100 per cent,” he said. “The smallest mistake against this kind of team can punish you.”
Structure over fear for Tanzania
Despite Nigeria’s attacking power, the Tanzania coach maintained that his team will not approach the fixture with fear.
He underlined organisation, structure and tactical discipline as the pillars of the Taifa Stars’ strategy.
“The key for us is the shape, the tactical discipline, the structure and the organisation,” Gamondi stated. “In games like this, there is no room for mistakes.”
‘We are not here only to defend’
Gamondi also rejected suggestions that Tanzania would sit deep throughout the game, insisting his players will look to compete and play football when opportunities arise.
“Our mentality is not only to defend. We want to recover the ball and try to attack as well. We are coming here to compete with our guts.”
Nigeria unfazed by past setbacks
While accepting Nigeria’s status as one of the tournament favourites, Gamondi dismissed claims that recent disappointments could weigh on the Super Eagles mentally.
“I don’t believe Nigeria are mentally affected. Great players forget mistakes quickly. I expect Nigeria to be very strong and motivated in this tournament.”
Nigeria face Tanzania on Tuesday in their AFCON 2025 opener, with the Super Eagles targeting a strong start in their pursuit of a fourth continental title.
