AZAM FC will look to make a statement as they kick off their 2025/26 Mainland Premier League campaign tonight against newly promoted Mbeya City at the Chamazi Complex, with kick-off set for 9PM.

After a mixed 2024/25 season, the Ice Cream Makers have reloaded under experienced Congolese coach Florent Ibenge, bringing in several fresh faces and setting their sights firmly on challenging for a first league crown since the 2013/14 season. 

For Ibenge (pictured), consistency is key as his side aims to close the gap on Young Africans and Simba after finishing 15 points behind second place last term. Mbeya City, meanwhile, travel to Dar es Salaam full of confidence following a gritty 1-0 away win over Fountain Gate in their opening fixture. 

Under the guidance of head coach Malale Hamsini, the newcomers are determined to prove they belong in the top flight and will look to frustrate Azam as they chase at least a point on the road.

This fixture carries extra intrigue after Mbeya City stunned Azam in last season’s Federation Cup, eliminating them in the early stages.  The two sides also met in a preseason friendly just two weeks ago, with Azam emerging 2-0 winners at the Sokoine Stadium - a result that will give Ibenge’s charges confidence heading into tonight’s contest.

 Speaking ahead of the match, Ibenge stressed the importance of treating every game as a must-win: “Last year, Azam finished 15 points behind Simba, who were second. That gap is too big,” he said. 

 “Every game is important, not just the ones against Simba or Yanga. Our target this season is to take points from every match. We will play for three points, and if we cannot get three, then at least one.

 “There is no pressure. I tell my players to enjoy football. Everyone is fit, morale is high, and we are ready. We’ve had a good preseason, worked hard in training, and learned from our mistakes. Now it’s time to start well and recover what we lost last season.”