KMC and Azam FC are set to face off in an intriguing Premier League clash at the KMC Complex this afternoon.

Hosts KMC currently sit seventh in the league standings with four points, while Azam FC are five places below them with only two points. 

This match presents a significant opportunity for both sides to improve their standing in the early stages of the season.

Azam FC, under the guidance of Moroccan coach Rachid Taoussi, showed glimpses of potential during their recent encounter with Pamba Jiji. Despite their best efforts, the Chamazi-based side were held to a disappointing draw at home, adding extra pressure on their upcoming trip to KMC. 

Taoussi expressed frustration with the result, lamenting the numerous missed opportunities, particularly in the first half.

With just two points from a possible six, Azam’s start to the season has been below expectations. The veteran coach is now under pressure to restore belief in his squad, who have gone winless in their last three matches across all competitions.

Azam FC's struggles extend beyond the league. Their campaign started with a goalless draw away to JKT Tanzania and was followed by a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Rwanda’s APR, knocking them out of the CAF Champions League. 

That loss prompted Azam's management to dismiss Senegalese coach Youssouph Dabo and his entire technical staff.

Now, just two games into his tenure, Taoussi faces the familiar challenge of finding a winning formula quickly - something his predecessors were rarely afforded time to do. 

Despite Azam's heavy offseason investment in attack-minded players, the team has failed to score an open play goal in their last four matches.

On the other hand, KMC head into this game with renewed confidence, having claimed their first league win of the campaign in their last outing against newly promoted Ken Gold FC. 

Abdihamid Moallin’s side will be eager to build on that momentum and improve on their decent showing from last season. A strong performance against Azam would further bolster their confidence.

KMC opened their season with a 1-1 draw against JKT Tanzania before suffering a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Singida Black Stars at Liti Stadium. 

Despite these mixed results, KMC have shown resilience and will be looking to capitalize on Azam’s shaky form.

In their recent head-to-head meetings, KMC have struggled against Azam, losing all three of their last encounters in the Premier League. 

This match presents an opportunity for KMC to break that trend and assert themselves as a competitive force this season.

For Taoussi and Azam, the challenge is clear: find a way to score and secure their first win, or risk further pressure mounting on the team. 

Both teams will be hungry for a positive result as they look to climb the Premier League table.