The dream of reaching the FIFA World Cup™ is one shared by millions of people across Tanzania. At the helm is one man, Hemed Suleiman, whose responsibility extends further than just the Tanzanian national team. Every minute on the pitch, every decision is guided by a single objective: to give the team, the country and its people a place among the giants of world football.

For Suleiman, FIFA World Cup 26™ is not just a sporting goal, but a promise to turn the long-held dream of an entire nation into a reality. “When I watch my players train, I see hearts and souls ready to give it all for this dream,” he said to FIFA, with immense pride audible in his voice.

It’s not just a team that Suleiman leads today; it’s an entire nation. The road is hard, but every step towards qualification is charged with intense emotion, personal sacrifice, unshakeable faith and is aimed at writing the most glorious chapter in the Taifa Stars’ story to date.

“Every Tanzanian, every child who kicks a ball, dreams of playing in the World Cup,” he continued. “It’s a hope we carry within us, one that could transform the history of Tanzanian football.

“For us, this qualification process will drive significant progress for the future of football in Tanzania. Every win, every loss, every moment on the pitch is another step towards that transformation.”

Suleiman wears his nickname “Morocco” with pride and a hint of nostalgia. It is a nod to the deep bond with his father, a footballer by trade and a former ambassador to the country.

“When I was younger and playing football, people often compared my skills to his,” he recollected. “I still feel his presence every moment as I’m guiding this team. This nickname is more than just a word, it’s a tribute to his memory, a legacy that I strive to honour by trying to succeed where he never could.”

Bolstered by this family background, Suleiman has forged his own path and become an emblematic figure in Tanzanian football. With the national-team hopes of a country of 56 million people on his shoulders, he is well aware of the heavy responsibility that comes with that honour.

“For me, being Tanzania’s head coach is an immense honour, but it’s also a lot of pressure,” he admitted. “Every decision I make, every tactical plan I implement, I do so with the millions of people in mind who dream of experiencing that moment of glory, the moment when they can say, ‘We did it.’”

When he reflects on Morocco’s journey, he speaks with a touch of admiration. “Watching Morocco shine was a proud moment for the entire African continent,” he continued. “What they achieved shows that anything is possible. It’s a source of inspiration for us. We too can make history.”

Nevertheless, Suleiman does not underestimate the challenges that lie ahead. Tanzania’s Group E is particularly tough, with the likes of Morocco, Niger and Zambia. Suleiman’s side are currently in the running. They are in third place in the group, behind Morocco, who lead with 9 points, and level with Niger at 6 points.

“Nothing comes easy, but it’s in moments like these that great teams are forged. We know the road is full of obstacles, yet we have a deep conviction that we can succeed.”