The Tanzania national football team standings have become a point of growing interest in African football. Over the past decade, Tanzania has transformed from a lesser-known side in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) into a competitive nation that consistently challenges for a place in continental tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and works towards FIFA World Cup qualification. As of 2025, the Taifa Stars, as they are popularly known, represent resilience, growing investment in sports infrastructure, and a passionate fan base eager to see their team compete with Africa’s elite.
This article explores the current standings of Tanzania’s national football team, their journey, key players, recent trends, strategies for improvement, and the broader significance of their performance.
Understanding Tanzania National Football Team Standings
Definition of Standings in Football
In football, “standings” refer to a ranking system within competitions such as World Cup qualifiers, continental tournaments, or domestic leagues. For national teams, standings typically represent their position in qualification groups, tournament tables, or FIFA world rankings. These standings are determined by accumulated points from wins, draws, and losses, along with goal difference and head-to-head results.
For Tanzania, standings serve as a barometer of progress. They show whether the team is moving closer to competing with Africa’s traditional football powerhouses like Nigeria, Senegal, and Egypt.
Historical Context of Tanzania’s Standings
Tanzania has traditionally been outside Africa’s top football nations. Their first and only Africa Cup of Nations appearance before 2019 was in 1980, when they failed to progress beyond the group stage. However, a resurgence came in 2019, when the Taifa Stars qualified for AFCON for the first time in nearly four decades. Although they struggled in the tournament, finishing bottom of their group, it marked a new chapter in Tanzanian football.
Since then, the team has continued to improve steadily, climbing CAF rankings and pushing for regular tournament participation.
Current Standings of Tanzania National Football Team (2025 Update)
As of 2025, Tanzania sits in the middle tier of African football standings. In the FIFA Men’s World Rankings released in June 2025, Tanzania was positioned around 114th globally and 28th in Africa, according to CAF statistics. While this might not place them among the continent’s top-tier nations, it highlights significant growth compared to their historical ranking outside the top 130 worldwide.
In World Cup 2026 qualifying standings, Tanzania is part of Group E alongside Morocco, Zambia, Congo, and Niger. After the first round of matches, Tanzania stands in third place with one win, one draw, and one defeat. Though not favourites to win the group, they remain in contention for qualification if they maintain consistency.
In AFCON 2025 qualifying standings, Tanzania sits second in their group behind Algeria. With two matches remaining, the Taifa Stars have a strong chance of qualifying for the continental tournament in Morocco, which would be their third AFCON appearance in recent history.
Key Players Driving Tanzania’s Standings
Mbwana Samatta
Samatta, arguably Tanzania’s most famous player, has been the national team’s talisman for nearly a decade. Having played in the English Premier League for Aston Villa and later in Turkey, his experience and leadership remain vital for the national side.
Simon Msuva
Known for his versatility as a winger, Msuva has consistently delivered goals and assists in crucial matches. His speed and creativity make him one of Tanzania’s most dangerous players.
Novatus Dismas
A young midfielder currently plying his trade in Europe, Dismas represents the future of Tanzanian football. His tactical awareness and passing range bring balance to the midfield, bridging experience and youth.
Aishi Manula
As one of Africa’s most reliable goalkeepers, Manula’s performances for Simba SC and the national team have provided Tanzania with defensive stability.
Recent Trends in Tanzanian Football
Rise of Local Clubs
The dominance of clubs like Simba SC and Young Africans SC (Yanga) in regional competitions has significantly improved the quality of Tanzanian football. Their participation in CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup has exposed players to tougher competition, which in turn benefits the national team.
Increased Investment in Infrastructure
Tanzania has invested in new stadiums, youth academies, and training facilities. The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam now regularly hosts international fixtures, attracting larger crowds and improving home advantage.
Government and Private Sponsorship
In recent years, government support combined with private sponsorship has increased funding for player development, travel, and competitive exposure abroad.
Growing Fan Engagement
Social media trends in 2025 reveal that hashtags like #TaifaStars and #StandWithStars frequently trend across platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook whenever Tanzania plays. Fans are more engaged than ever before, creating a strong football culture.
Challenges Affecting Standings
Consistency Against Stronger Teams
While Tanzania can compete against mid-level African nations, they often struggle against top-tier teams such as Senegal, Morocco, or Nigeria. Bridging this gap requires both tactical and technical improvement.
Talent Drain
Although players like Samatta broke into European leagues, many Tanzanian players still face barriers in moving abroad due to limited scouting and lack of exposure.
Coaching and Tactical Discipline
Frequent changes in coaching staff have affected continuity. Tanzania must prioritise long-term managerial appointments with clear tactical visions.
Practical Tips for Improving Tanzania’s Standings
Emphasising Youth Development
Focusing on grassroots football through academies and school programmes can ensure a steady pipeline of talent.
Strategic Coaching
Hiring coaches with proven experience in African competitions could elevate Tanzania’s game management and tactical adaptability.
Encouraging Player Migration to Competitive Leagues
Supporting Tanzanian players in moving to European or Asian leagues would provide greater exposure and skill development.
Strengthening Domestic Leagues
Improving the competitiveness of the Tanzanian Premier League will directly impact national team performance by ensuring players are battle-ready.
Real-Life Examples of Progress
In the 2022 AFCON qualifiers, Tanzania managed a famous 1-0 win over Equatorial Guinea, showing their ability to cause upsets. Similarly, in World Cup 2022 qualifying, they drew 1-1 with DR Congo, proving they can hold their own against established African teams.
More recently, in 2024, Tanzania beat Niger 3-1 in AFCON qualifying, a result that boosted their chances of securing a place in the 2025 tournament. These results underscore steady progress in international standings.
The Bigger Picture: Tanzania’s Role in African Football
Tanzania’s football development is not only about improving standings but also about inspiring the next generation. Their journey resonates with other developing football nations striving for recognition. If Tanzania qualifies consistently for AFCON and remains competitive in World Cup qualifiers, they can cement their place as a rising force in Africa.
FAQs
What is Tanzania’s current FIFA ranking in 2025?
As of June 2025, Tanzania ranks around 114th globally and 28th in Africa according to FIFA and CAF rankings.
Has Tanzania ever qualified for the FIFA World Cup?
No, Tanzania has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup, but they continue to participate in qualifiers with the hope of making history in 2026.
How many times has Tanzania played in the Africa Cup of Nations?
Tanzania has participated in AFCON three times, with appearances in 1980, 2019, and a likely qualification for 2025 if current standings hold.
Who are Tanzania’s most notable football players?
Key players include Mbwana Samatta, Simon Msuva, Novatus Dismas, and goalkeeper Aishi Manula.
What are Tanzania’s chances of qualifying for AFCON 2025?
Tanzania currently sits second in their group and has a strong chance of qualifying, depending on the results of the final matches.
Final Thoughts
The Tanzania national football team standings represent both progress and ambition. From being absent in major tournaments for decades to now regularly competing in qualifiers, the Taifa Stars embody the story of perseverance. With investment in infrastructure, emerging talent, and passionate fan support, Tanzania is poised for greater achievements. While challenges remain, the trajectory suggests that the future of Tanzanian football is brighter than ever.
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