AZAM FC head coach Rachid Taoussi has acknowledged the team's struggles ahead of the Mainland Premier League restart but remains optimistic about their ability to bounce back and achieve their season objectives.

His remarks come just days after Azam FC suffered a 4-2 defeat to KMC in a friendly match last Saturday. Taoussi admitted that the team's recent inconsistencies highlight the work needed in their remaining league fixtures.

"The loss against KMC in a friendly match is disappointing, but it serves as an opportunity for my players to assess their strengths and weaknesses as we prepare for the league's resumption," Taoussi (pictured) stated.

"Mistakes like these would have been more damaging in a competitive match. Now, we have a chance to correct them and improve our performance in official games," he added.

The coach urged his players to use the friendly match as a wake-up call, emphasizing that those who underperformed must reflect on their efforts before the league resumes.

"Players who failed to meet expectations now have time to reflect. Competition within the squad is tough, and maintaining a spot in the starting lineup requires consistent performance," he warned.

Azam FC face a demanding stretch in April, with three crucial Premier League fixtures in just seven days. 

The Chamazi-based side is set to face KenGold on April 3, Singida Black Stars on April 7, and defending champions Young Africans on April 10.

With their Federation Cup campaign ending early following a dramatic penalty shootout loss to Mbeya City in the round of 32, Azam's focus is now solely on securing a top-three finish in the league.

Despite failing to replicate last season's second-place finish, which earned them a CAF Champions League preliminary round spot, Taoussi remains encouraged by standout individual performances.

Feisal Salum leads the league with 12 assists, Djibril Sillah has netted seven goals, Nassoro Saadun has contributed four, while goalkeeper Mohamed Mustafa has recorded 10 clean sheets.

Azam currently boasts a record of 14 wins, six draws, and three losses from 23 matches, with a goal difference of +24, having scored 36 goals and conceded 12.

Ahead of the league restart, Azam will welcome back key players, including Salum, Iddy Nado, Lusajo Mwaikenda, Pascal Msindo, Sillah, and Mustafa, who were away on international duty.

With seven matches left in the season - including home games against Tabora United, Young Africans, and Dodoma Jiji, as well as away fixtures against KenGold, Singida Black Stars, Fountain Gate FC, and Kagera Sugar - Azam still have a strong chance of securing a top-three finish.