Fei Toto lauds Azam’s winning streak, eyes titles and CAF Champions League return

By Seth Mapoli , The Guardian
Published at 08:43 AM Dec 07 2024
 Feisal Salum
Photo: File
Feisal Salum

AZAM FC attacking midfielder Feisal Salum, popularly known as Fei Toto, has praised his team’s remarkable run of consecutive victories in the Premier League, citing the streak as a major morale booster.

Fei Toto also expressed his determination to contribute more goals whenever opportunities arise.

Azam FC have been in scintillating form, securing seven consecutive wins. The victories include triumphs over Namungo (1-0), Tanzania Prisons (2-0), Ken Gold (4-1), defending champions Young Africans SC (1-0), Kagera Sugar (1-0), Singida Black Stars (2-1), and Dodoma Jiji (3-1). 

This dominant run followed their last defeat on September 26, when they lost 2-0 to Simba SC.

Since joining Azam from Young Africans, Fei Toto has been instrumental in the team’s success. He has been involved in nine of Azam’s 19 goals this season, demonstrating his significance to the squad. 

The team has collected 30 points from 13 matches, with nine wins, three draws, and just one loss, solidifying their place as serious title contenders.

Speaking about the team’s current form, Fei Toto highlighted the unity and confidence within the squad. 

“The consecutive victories have built our confidence and fostered a strong team spirit. Our goal is to ensure we return to the CAF Champions League next season,” he said.

He acknowledged the positive impact of recent changes in the technical bench, emphasizing how competition among players has improved the team’s performance. 

“Despite the changes, the squad has been well-prepared. Every player is fighting for their spot, which is exciting and motivating for the entire team,” he noted.

Reflecting on Azam’s slow start to the season, Fei Toto credited the players’ ability to adapt to the coach’s system and training ground instructions as the secret behind their resurgence. 

“We didn’t start well, but now we have embraced the coach’s philosophy. Following his instructions has been crucial to our current success,” he added.

Fei Toto also shared his satisfaction with his individual contributions since joining Azam. 

“I am not proud of myself; the numbers speak for themselves. I am happy to be part of this team and to help it achieve its goals. My aim is to fight for this team to win titles and reach new heights,” he said.

He reiterated the team’s collective ambition to secure titles and earn a spot in one of Africa’s major international competitions. 

“We are hungry for success. With the quality of players we have, winning all the titles we compete for is a realistic goal,” he declared.

Fei Toto’s stellar performances have not gone unnoticed, with reports linking him to South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs. 

Chiefs’ interest is particularly notable, given the presence of Nasreddine Nabi, who coached Fei Toto during his time at Young Africans.

At just 26 years old, Fei Toto is considered one of Tanzania’s finest midfielders. His versatility allows him to operate as a defensive midfielder (No. 6), central midfielder (No. 8), or attacking midfielder (No. 10). 

Last season, he was the second-highest goal scorer in the league with 19 goals, trailing only his former Yanga teammate Stephane Aziz Ki, who netted 21 goals.

While the transfer rumours intensify, Azam remain committed to keeping their star midfielder. 

The club views Fei Toto as a cornerstone of their ambitions and will likely fight hard to retain his services amid growing interest from top clubs.

With Azam riding high on their winning streak and Fei Toto playing a pivotal role, the team appears well on track to achieve their goals this season.