AZAM FC head coach Rachid Taoussi has expressed satisfaction with his team's recent form but emphasized the need for more time to build a stronger squad, following their emphatic 5-0 victory over Tabora United at Azam Complex.

The win secured Azam a third-place finish in the Mainland Premier League and qualification for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.

Despite missing several clear scoring opportunities, Taoussi’s side delivered a dominant performance, with goals from Abdul Suleiman (Sopu), Nassoro Hamduni, and Iddi Nado, along with a brace from Djibril Sillah. 

The result also avenged their 2-1 loss to Tabora United in the first round and handed their opponents a seventh straight league defeat.

This was Azam’s second consecutive 5-0 victory, coming on the heels of a rout against Dodoma Jiji on May 13. It also capped a streak of three straight matches with a winning margin of four or more goals, beginning with their 4-2 triumph over Kagera Sugar on April 19.

Taoussi (pictured) praised his team's improving style of play and mentality but once again voiced concern over finishing, citing the striking position as a widespread issue in African football.

"I'm happy with how my team played today. We’re heading in the right direction in terms of results - we’ve scored a lot of goals recently, which is the most important thing. We play modern football, and that’s something I’m proud of," said Taoussi.

"Today, we could have scored even more, but it didn’t happen. You know, this is a problem across Africa - the number nine position. Very few teams have a reliable goal poacher. We're working hard to improve every day."

With his contract reportedly expiring at the end of the season, Taoussi also reflected on the broader development of his squad and his ambitions moving forward.

"This season has been amazing so far. We've really focused on developing players. I believe I need more time to build an even stronger team for next season."

Meanwhile, speculation continues to swirl around Taoussi's future, with reports linking Congolese coach Florent Ibenge to the Azam job next season. The club is expected to evaluate its coaching situation during the off-season.

Azam currently sit third in the league standings with 60 points from 29 matches - recording 18 wins, six draws, and five losses. They have scored 53 goals and conceded just 17, boasting a goal difference of +36.

Last season, Azam finished second, earning a place in the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds, only to be eliminated by APR of Rwanda in a 2-1 aggregate defeat.

Although their title ambitions fell short this campaign, Azam have ensured a return to continental competition through the CAF Confederation Cup—a testament to their strong finish under Taoussi.