ZANZIBAR’s Uhamiaji FC will face a challenging task in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary rounds, as both legs of their tie against Al Ahly Tripoli will be played in Libya at the 11 June Stadium.

Initially, the first leg was set for August 18 at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, but the plan was altered, with reports from Tripoli indicating that this decision was made over a month ago.

The winners of the Uhamiaji FC vs. Al Ahly Tripoli tie will progress to the next round, where they will face Tanzanian giants Simba SC. The victor of that matchup will secure a spot in the group stage of the 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup.

Uhamiaji FC’s decision to play both matches in Libya has sparked criticism from local fans who were eager to see their team compete on home soil. However, the club remains optimistic about the situation.

According to the club’s spokesperson, Mwinyi Hamad, the choice was made after discussions with Al Ahly Tripoli, and the club views it as an opportunity for growth. 

“We had a conversation with Al Ahly Tripoli and saw the need to play both games at 11 June Stadium in Tripoli. The first leg will be played on August 18 and the second leg on August 23. We see this as an opportunity for our squad to gain exposure to competitive games, allowing our new players to be introduced in such a challenging environment,” said Hamad.

Despite limited new signings, Uhamiaji FC head coach Ali Bakari Mngazija remains confident in his squad. 

The club has added just three new players, but Mngazija has praised the progress of the team, noting the improvement in morale, tactical understanding, and competition for starting positions. He believes these factors will be essential as the team prepares for the season ahead.

Uhamiaji FC earned their place in the CAF Confederation Cup by finishing sixth in the previous season with 47 points, achieving 12 wins, 11 draws, and seven losses.

Their opponents, Al Ahly Tripoli, are a strong team from the Libyan league, which is divided into two groups of ten teams each. Al Ahly Tripoli finished last season in Group B with 48 points from 20 matches, including 15 wins, three draws, and two losses. 

They advanced to the championship round, where they finished third with one win, two draws, and two losses.

As Uhamiaji FC prepare to take on this formidable opponent, the club and its supporters will be hoping for a strong performance in Libya to keep their CAF Confederation Cup dreams alive.