Gamondi raises concerns ahead of Nigeria return fixture in Zanzibar

Miguel Gamondi has admitted that Tanzania struggled physically during their 3-1 defeat to Nigeria on match day 3 of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Taifa Stars matched the Super Eagles for much of the first half in Uyo, recovering from an early setback to reach the break at 1-1.

However, Nigeria's quality eventually proved decisive, with Tolu Arokodare scoring twice after coming on at half-time.

Gamondi highlights fitness and experience gap

Asked about Tanzania's physical difficulties, Gamondi explained that the team's travel conditions had affected their preparations.

"One of the things should be there are not too much fitness because the travelling condition for us was really very poor, honest," he said.

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He also highlighted the difference in experience between the two teams, noting that most of his players do not regularly compete at the same level as Nigeria's internationals.

"Even the last 20, 30 minutes I think it can happen. And as well the different experience, you know, how you put the body, how you go to the 50-50, when you play in high level it's a big difference," Gamondi explained.

The Tanzania coach admitted that his team suffered physically towards the end of the match and expects another difficult challenge after travelling for the return fixture.

Injury concerns complicate return fixture preparations

Gamondi also discussed the difficulties surrounding his substitutions, revealing that Baka was carrying an injury but wanted to continue playing.

He explained that Tanzania did not have another natural centre-back available on the bench, forcing him to consider moving Novatus Miroshi into that position.

The coach also revealed that he had decided against handing a debut to an under-20 player in such a demanding fixture. Tanzania now face a quick turnaround before hosting Nigeria in Zanzibar on Tuesday, November 17.

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