FEDERATION Cup holders Young Africans face a challenging test against Coastal Union in the Round of 32 of this year’s competition.

Last season, Young Africans claimed the title by defeating Azam FC 6-5 on penalties at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, following a goalless draw after 120 minutes. The victory secured their third consecutive Federation Cup triumph.

The draw for this season’s competition was conducted yesterday in Dar es Salaam, under the supervision of Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) Competition Manager Baraka Kizuguto. 

The Round of 32 matches is set to take place between March 4th and 14th.

Young Africans and Coastal Union share a memorable history in the tournament, having last met in the thrilling 2022 final, which ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw before the Jangwani Street-based side triumphed 4-1 in the penalty shootout.

The winner of the Young Africans vs. Coastal Union clash will advance to the Round of 16 to face either Police Tanzania or Songea FC.

Meanwhile, Simba, fresh off their victory over Kilimanjaro Wonders, will take on Championship side TMA Stars, who have been in impressive form this season. The winner of that fixture will meet either Tanzania Prisons or Big Man.

In another intriguing matchup, Azam FC will battle Mbeya City, with the winner progressing to face either Mtibwa Sugar - currently leading the Championship - or Town Stars.

Regarding the venue for this year’s Federation Cup final, Kizuguto stated: “We are still receiving applications from different regions, so the bidding process is ongoing.”

Full Round of 32 Draw:

Cosmopolitan FC vs. KMC FC

Mbeya Kwanza vs. Mambali Academy

Tanzania Prisons vs. Big Man

Kagera Sugar vs. Namungo

Police Tanzania vs. Songea United

Kiluvya United vs. Pamba Jiji FC

Mtibwa Sugar vs. Towns Stars

Giraffe Academy vs. Green Warriors

JKT Tanzania vs. Biashara United

Tabora United vs. Transit Camp

Mashujaa FC vs. Geita Gold

Simba SC vs. TMA Stars

Azam FC vs. Mbeya City

Singida Black Stars vs. Leo Tena

Young Africans vs. Coastal Union

Fountain Gate vs. Stand United