PAMBA Jiji FC's head coach, Goran Kopunovic, expressed his disappointment after his team's 2-0 loss to Coastal Union at the Azam Complex on Saturday.

Despite the setback, Kopunovic reassured that there is still unity and solidarity within the team as they strive for their first win in the Premier League.

Goals from John Makwata and Maabad Maulid in the second half secured Coastal Union’s victory, marking their first win of the season after a series of losses and draws. 

Pamba Jiji, returning to the top flight after more than two decades, have struggled to find their footing, with two losses and four draws to date.

Kopunovic admitted his frustration with the team's inability to score goals and win matches despite intensive training sessions and tactical adjustments. He remains puzzled as to why the team continues to fall short:

“As a coach, it’s incredibly frustrating. Despite our solid training sessions and the players’ apparent commitment, we’re unable to translate that into positive results on match days. This inconsistency is truly baffling."

Reflecting on the game, he added: “We controlled the first half, but two costly errors in the second half allowed Coastal Union to capitalize on their only real scoring opportunities. 

“It’s a harsh lesson, but I constantly remind my players to stay focused and execute precisely. Unfortunately, today’s lapses proved to be our undoing.”

The Serbian coach, however, expressed confidence in his team’s unity as they prepare for their next match against Young Africans, the current league leaders. 

He sees this as an opportunity for his players to rise to the challenge: “Matches like these are opportunities for our players to prove themselves. We have a talented squad with both domestic and international experience. 

“This game is a chance for us to overcome our recent struggles and return to winning form. While Young Africans are a formidable opponent, we need to secure a positive result to improve our overall performance.”

Kopunovic emphasized that job security is not a concern for him at the moment, focusing instead on finding ways to help his team regain their winning form.

Meanwhile, Coastal Union head coach Joseph Lazaro celebrated his team's first Premier League win, which has given the club a fresh boost of confidence. Lazaro emphasized the importance of maintaining this momentum:

“I’m thrilled with how my players executed the tactical changes. Today, we were outstanding. I instructed them to outnumber the opposition in the penalty area to create chaos and maintain possession. We achieved our goal, and I’m incredibly pleased with the outcome.”

Coastal Union, currently without a permanent home stadium due to renovations at CCM Mkwakwani Stadium in Tanga, will face Simba SC in their next match. 

The game, scheduled for Friday, will be held at KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam.