AZAM FC head coach Rachid Taoussi remains optimistic about his team’s chances of challenging for the Premier League title despite trailing Simba SC and Young Africans in the standings.

As the league resumes, Azam FC have intensified preparations with the aim of not only securing a strong finish but also qualifying for continental football, which they achieved last season under former coach Youssouf Dabo.

Dabo, now coaching AS Vita Club, led Azam in a CAF Confederation Cup campaign that ended in the first round with a 2-1 aggregate loss to APR. 

Now, under Moroccan coach Taoussi (pictured), Azam seek to capitalize on the second half of the season to push for the league title.

Taoussi highlighted his team’s ability to compete with the league’s top sides, referencing their 1-0 victory over Young Africans earlier in the season, even though they fell 2-0 to Simba.

Currently third in the league with 36 points - four behind leaders Simba (40 points) and three behind second-placed Young Africans (39 points) - Azam are focused on closing the gap.

"Dropping points in the first round doesn't mean we've given up. We still have a chance," Taoussi said. 

"Considering we have matches against our rivals in this second round, we can't afford to make mistakes. Especially against Simba, who beat us in the first round."

Taoussi emphasized the importance of consistency in collecting maximum points, particularly in matches against title rivals.

"If you want to win the title, you can't be weak against your rivals. The four points that the league leaders are ahead of us, we will take from them. And as for the defending champions, we will ensure we continue where we left off," he added.

Azam aim to build on their positive end to the first round, which concluded with a 3-1 home win over JKT Tanzania on December 27.

Azam’s second-round campaign begins with a home match against KMC on February 6, followed by an away fixture against Pamba Jiji on February 9 at CCM Kirumba Stadium. 

Taoussi welcomed the schedule, expressing confidence in his team’s ability to utilize their home advantage early on.

The club has also bolstered its squad during the mid-season transfer window. Notable signings include 19-year-old Zidane Sereri from Dodoma Jiji, who signed a five-and-a-half-year deal, and Ivorian defender Zouzou Landry from AFAD Djekanou in the Ivorian Ligue 1.

The new additions are expected to provide immediate competition for starting positions while strengthening Azam both defensively and offensively.

Azam boast the third-best defensive record in the league, having conceded only eight goals in 16 matches. Simba lead with just five goals conceded, followed by Young Africans with six. Azam have also scored 25 goals, showcasing their offensive potential.

As the season progresses, Taoussi and his squad remain determined to fight for the title and continue their pursuit of continental football.