COASTAL Union head coach, Juma Mwambusi, is confident that the addition of nine new players will significantly improve the team’s performance when Premier League action resumes.

Currently sitting in 11th place with 18 points from 16 matches and a goal difference of -1, Coastal Union have bolstered their squad to climb up the table and avoid relegation. 

While Mwambusi (pictured) admitted that qualifying for CAF interclub competitions is a long shot this season, the team’s immediate focus is to secure enough points to maintain their spot in the top flight next season.

The team had a strong showing in the 2023/2024 season, finishing fourth in the Premier League and earning a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup. 

However, their continental campaign was cut short in the preliminary round, where they lost 3-0 on aggregate to Angolan side Bravos do Maquis.

Domestically, Coastal Union faced setbacks in the Community Shield, losing 5-2 to Azam FC in the semi-finals and suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Simba SC in the third-place playoff.

Despite these challenges, Mwambusi remains optimistic about the team’s potential. He praised the new signings and expressed confidence that they will positively contribute to the team’s performance.

“I believe the new signings, along with the players who fought in the first round, will unite and help Coastal Union regain its sharpness,” Mwambusi said. 

“It won’t be easy without solid plans, but with the right strategy, we can secure our place in the league for next season.”

Mwambusi emphasized the importance of thorough preparation and meticulous planning to turn the team’s fortunes around. 

He highlighted the need to address weaknesses from the first round and to build the players' confidence for the second half of the season.

“We have five matches in February when the league resumes after the schedule adjustments. Among these, two are home matches, and it’s imperative to secure all six points from those games. The other three are away, and we must approach them strategically,” he added.

While a return to continental competitions remains out of reach, Mwambusi reiterated that avoiding relegation is the team’s primary goal.

Coastal Union have struggled to secure wins recently. They drew their last two matches, 1-1 against KMC and Tabora United, and suffered a 3-2 loss to Fountain Gate FC. 

Their most recent victory was a 1-0 win over Tanzania Prisons on December 2, 2024.

The league resumes on February 7, with Coastal Union hosting JKT. This will be followed by away matches against Mashujaa and Pamba, before they return home to face Azam FC.

Mwambusi and his team will be looking to capitalize on their new additions and improve their form as they enter the crucial second half of the season.