Baraza backs Mayombya for AFCON 2027 squad

**MWANZA: **PAMBA Jiji Head Coach Francis Baraza has thrown his weight behind attacking midfielder Zabona Mayombya for a place in the Taifa Stars squad ahead of next year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Baraza told the Daily News that he believes Mayombya has shown enough quality and consistency to earn a call-up to the national team as Tanzania prepares to co-host the continental tournament alongside Kenya and Uganda.

A person like Zabona deserves to be called up to the national team. I often tell him that he is the captain of his teammates in matches, which means his performance is good,” Baraza said.

The coach revealed that his confidence in Mayombya dates back to the player’s time with Tanzania Prisons in Mbeya, saying he had followed his progress before eventually getting the opportunity to work with him in Morogoro.

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Baraza has also played a role in redefining Mayombya’s position, moving him from the wing into the number 10 role, a change he believes has brought out the midfielder’s qualities.

“I met Zabona in Morogoro and told him that he was a good player and that one day I would like to work with him. I told him he was a good player that I could not bench,” Baraza said.

The coach’s endorsement comes as competition for places in the Taifa Stars squad intensifies ahead of AFCON, with domestic league players seeking to impress national-team selectors.

Baraza said Mayombya’s performances have demonstrated that he can make an impact at a higher level, particularly after adapting successfully to his new attacking midfield role. He also credited the player’s development and highlighted the importance of tactical changes in helping footballers discover their best positions.

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