SINGIDA Black Stars have strengthened their technical bench with the appointment of Melis Medo as an assistant coach, just days after his departure from Kagera Sugar.

Medo (pictured), who left Kagera Sugar over the weekend following a series of disappointing results in the Mainland Premier League, has now been unveiled by Singida Black Stars as part of their revamped coaching staff.

Medo took over at Kagera Sugar in October 2024 but struggled to revitalize the struggling side. In his 14 league games, he managed just two wins, five losses, and seven draws.

Kagera Sugar currently sit second from bottom in the Mainland Premier League, eight points adrift from safety with only nine games remaining.

Despite his challenges at Kagera Sugar, Medo's vast coaching experience - having previously worked with Mtibwa Sugar, Coastal Union, and Dodoma Jiji -has earned him a quick return to the dugout.

Singida Black Stars confirmed Medo’s appointment in a statement released yesterday, outlining his role as an assistant coach and technical advisor.

“The management of Singida Black Stars continues to improve the technical bench and has reached an agreement with coach Melis Medo, who will serve as an assistant coach and advisor to the technical team. He will work alongside assistant coach Juan Magro, with further support from coach Muhibu Kanu.”

Singida Black Stars believe Medo’s addition will bolster the team’s technical setup as they push for a strong finish in the Premier League and qualification for continental competitions.

“These adjustments are meant to strengthen the team further and help us achieve our objectives, including securing qualification for international club competitions in the upcoming season.”

Medo's departure from Kagera Sugar came after a 2-0 defeat against JKT Tanzania on February 21, marking another low point in their season.

Kagera Sugar had won only one of their last 10 matches, drawing four and losing five. Their struggles for consistency ultimately led to a mutual agreement for Medo to step down.

Meanwhile, Kagera Sugar has appointed former striker Felix Themi as interim coach, hoping he can steer the club away from relegation and preserve their 20-year top-flight status.

Singida Black Stars are fourth in the Premier League standings with 38 points from 21 matches (11 wins, five draws, and five losses).

They are six points behind third-placed Azam FC (44 points) and trail league leaders Young Africans SC (55 points).

A top-four finish would be historic for Singida Black Stars, potentially securing them a place in continental tournaments. However, the competition remains fierce, with Simba SC (51 points) and Azam FC also pushing for top positions.

With only a handful of matches left, Singida Black Stars must remain consistent, as any slip-ups could see them overtaken in the race for continental football.

Kagera Sugar now face a crucial battle to maintain their Premier League status, having been a top-flight club since 2005.

Their next three matches will be critical: KMC (Home) – A must-win game to build momentum; Pamba Jiji (Home) – Another key opportunity for points: Coastal Union (Home) – A crucial fixture before an away clash against Tanzania Prisons at Sokoine Stadium in Mbeya

Winning these home matches could lift them out of the direct relegation spots and keep their survival hopes alive.