IN a move that has sparked debate among football fans, Taifa Stars head coach Hemed Suleiman, popularly known as ‘Morocco’, has confirmed the exclusion of promising striker Kelvin John from the 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The decision comes as Tanzania prepares for crucial matches against Congo Brazzaville and Niger, with the team aiming to strengthen its position in Group E alongside powerhouse Morocco.

Morocco (pictured) unveiled the squad on Sunday, underscoring the fierce competition for places in the forward line. “Kelvin is performing well, but opportunities are limited,” the coach said, stressing the need to balance the team with versatile players for high-stakes matches.

 Despite John's impressive form at Danish club Aalborg BK, where the 22-year-old has been scoring consistently since preseason, Morocco opted for veteran attackers Saimon Msuva and Mbwana Samatta to lead the charge. He also called up Mwalimu Selemani and Clement Mzize. 

 The omission has surprised many, given John's rapid rise. Dubbed Tanzania's "teen wonder," he shone at youth levels, earning MVP honors at the CECAFA U-20 tournament and making his senior debut in 2019 aged 16.

 Earlier this year, he was recalled for qualifiers against Morocco, where he showed potential but struggled for consistent minutes. Fans on social media have voiced disappointment, arguing that his club goals - netting seven in the Danish First Division League this season - warrant inclusion amid Tanzania's quest for a first-ever World Cup appearance.

 Morocco defended his choices, noting the squad's blend of home-based talents like Mzize and Selemani, and international stars. Training camp begins began yesterday, September 2, with the first qualifier against Congo set for September 7 in Dar es Salaam.

 Tanzania's current position in Group E sees them with a good chance for qualification. They are six points behind group leaders Morocco and hold a three-point advantage over third-placed Zambia at the halfway point.  The group winner will secure a direct ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the runner-up will have a second chance through the playoffs.

Full Squad: Goalkeepers: Yakoub Suleiman (JKT Tanzania), Hussein Masranganga (Singida Black Stars), and Antony Remy (Azam FC U20)

Defenders: Shomari Kapombe (Simba SC), Lusajo Mwaikenda (Azam FC), Wilson Nangu (JKT Tanzania), Mohamed Hussein (Young Africans), Pascal Msindo (Azam FC), Ibrahim Abdulla (Young Africans), and Dickson Job (Young Africans)

Midfielders: Yusuph Kagoma (Simba SC), Novatus Dismas (Göztepe FC, Turkey), Yahya Zaid (Azam FC), Edmund John (Young Africans), Charles M'Mombwa (Floriana FC, Malta) and  Mudathir Yahya (Young Africans)

Forwards: Clement Mzize (Young Africans), Mbwana Samatta (Le Havre AC, France), Abdulhamis Suleiman (Azam FC), Feisal Salum (Azam FC), Simon Msuva (Al-Talaba SC, Iraq), Iddy Selemani (Azam FC), Selemani Mwalimu (Simba SC)