Africa-Press – Tanzania. TAIFA Stars Head Coach Miguel Gamondi (pictured) expressed frustration after his team’s 1-0 defeat to Liechtenstein in the FIFA Series 2026 clash at Kigali Pelé Stadium on Thursday.
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Tanzania failed to convert their opportunities. Gamondi noted that the team produced multiple clear chances and should have scored at least twice, stressing that improving efficiency in front of goal is now a priority.
“We dominated the match and created many chances, yet we failed to capitalise. I counted at least four clear opportunities that we missed; we should have scored at least two goals,” he admitted.
The match remained goalless at halftime, and the coach warned his players about the risks of not capitalising early, pointing out that even a minor defensive lapse or set-piece situation could decide the game.
“I reminded the team that being 0-0 at this stage was risky. Any small mistake or poorly defended dead-ball situation could give our opponents the advantage they needed. I urged them to be extra careful,” he said.
While he praised the team’s control of possession and overall style of play, Gamondi emMARCH 28, 2026 Page 19 phasised that their inability to finish chances rendered their performance ineffective. He admitted the result was painful and offered an apology to fans back home.
“We played well in possession and controlled the tempo, but our finishing needs improvement. Even with the best possession game, if you cannot score, it is meaningless. Unfortunately, we played well and lost; no one remembers how you played. I am deeply pained by the result, and I apologise to our fans in Tanzania,” he added.
Liechtenstein’s Head Coach, Konrad Fünfstück, described the game as difficult but said his side followed their strategy well, playing with confidence and making the most of their limited chances to secure the win.
“It was a tough match. We knew from the start that Tanzania was strong, so I told my players to play with confidence and take their chances when they came. We did that, and we are delighted to progress,” he said.
Taifa Stars midfielder Novatus Dismas also reflected on the loss, acknowledging that the team may have been overly confident and paid the price. He added that the squad has learned from the setback and is determined to improve in their next match.
“We learned a hard lesson today. Perhaps we were too confident, which led to our being punished. We will work harder and aim to come back stronger in the next game,” he assured.
The Stars now turn their focus to tomorrow’s clash against Macau, who arrive wounded after a 4–1 defeat to Aruba at the same venue.
