HEMED ‘Morocco’ Suleiman faces crucial selection dilemmas as he prepares his Taifa Stars squad for a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Morocco tonight.

With availability concerns, game time, and form all playing a role, the Taifa Stars coach has several big decisions to make - particularly in defense and midfield.

Goalkeeping Dilemma

One of Suleiman’s major headaches is between the posts, as Tanzania continues to struggle with a clear and undisputed number one goalkeeper since Aishi Manula’s form declined two years ago.

Who among Yakoub Suleiman, Hussein Masalanga, and Ally Salim will rise to the occasion? 

Yakoub Suleiman, who has been enjoying a solid season with JKT Tanzania in the Mainland Premier League, has made 16 appearances and kept eight clean sheets. However, doubts persist over whether playing at a relatively lower-profile club prepares him for the daunting challenge of facing Morocco’s lethal attack.

Ally Salim (pictured), on the other hand, appears to be the first-choice on paper but has had a frustrating season at Simba, where he has been limited to just two league appearances under coach Fadlu Davids. His lack of match fitness is a concern heading into such a high-stakes game.

Newcomer Hussein Masalanga presents another wildcard option. Though he briefly held a starting role for Tabora United earlier in the season, his playing time has dwindled significantly since the turn of the year, with just a single league appearance.

With all factors considered, it wouldn’t be surprising if coach Suleiman hands Yakoub his first start ahead of the slightly more experienced Salim.

Right-Back Dilemma: Kapombe or Mnoga?

The battle for the right-back position is another key decision. Suleiman has to choose between Simba’s Shomari Kapombe and Salford City’s Haji Mnoga. 

Both players are having solid seasons - Kapombe has registered three goals and three assists in 19 league appearances, while Mnoga has recorded one assist and two goals in 30 games in England’s fourth tier.

However, Mnoga hasn’t featured for Taifa Stars since the AFCON finals early last year, whereas Kapombe played a crucial role in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. 

Another contender is Lusajo Mwaikenda of Azam, who is enjoying a strong personal campaign with three goals and two assists in 19 league appearances.

At 33, Kapombe’s best years may be behind him, but his experience could prove invaluable. With 82 caps, he is one of Tanzania’s most capped players and, in the absence of Mbwana Samatta, the only surviving member of the Taifa Stars squad that famously defeated Morocco 3-1 in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

Midfield Selection Headache

Suleiman’s biggest selection dilemma may come in central midfield, as the profile of players he selects will dictate how Taifa Stars approach the game.

Against Guinea, Adolf Bitegeko was a surprise choice to partner Mudathir Yahya, adding industry in midfield and allowing Feisal Salum to take on a more creative role. 

However, Bitegeko is unavailable for this match, with Kagoma taking his place in the squad. 

Meanwhile, the return of Novatus Miroshi presents a welcome challenge for the coach.

With Miroshi a near-guaranteed starter, Suleiman faces a tough call - who will he sacrifice between Mudathir and Kagoma? The choice will be crucial, as it will determine whether Taifa Stars adopt a more defensive or attacking approach against Morocco.

Tactical Implications

Beyond individual selections, these decisions will shape Taifa Stars’ strategy for the match. A more conservative lineup could see Kapombe’s experience favoured over Mnoga’s energy, while the midfield selection will dictate whether Tanzania takes a proactive or reactive approach against the group favourites.

With so much at stake, Suleiman’s ability to make the right calls could be the difference between a historic upset or a frustrating night for Taifa Stars.