The Somali U17 national football team has been hard at work in Kampala, Uganda, where they have set up a training camp ahead of the highly anticipated East and Central African Championship. The young Somali players, fresh off their triumph in last year’s edition of the tournament, are determined to retain their crown and bring home another prestigious title for their nation.
In an exclusive interview with Qaranka TV, head coach Mukhtaar Mukhtaar expressed his confidence in the team’s ability to replicate their success from the previous year. “First and foremost, we thank Allah for this opportunity,” he said. “We are grateful for the support from Qaranka TV and the Somali people. Our preparations have been going exceptionally well, and we are leaving no stone unturned in our quest to defend the title.”
Mukhtaar emphasized the team’s unwavering commitment and the rigorous training regimen they have been following. “Today’s training session was our second here in Kampala, and we have been working tirelessly to ensure we are in top form for the tournament. While our approach remains similar to previous camps, we have introduced some new elements to keep our players motivated and focused.”
One of the standout players, Anas, who was part of last year’s victorious squad, shared his thoughts on the team’s prospects. “Our goal is to win the championship with a 100% success rate,” he stated confidently. “We achieved victory last year, and we are determined to defend our title this year as well. We have been putting in the hard work during training, and our confidence is at an all-time high.”
The Somali U17 national team has garnered widespread support from the Somali community, both at home and abroad. Anas appealed to his fellow countrymen, saying, “We urge all Somalis to rally behind us and support our quest for glory. With their backing, we are confident of bringing the trophy back to Mogadishu.”
As the team prepares to depart for Sudan on the 15th of this month, where the tournament will commence, the anticipation and excitement among Somali football fans are palpable. The young players have their sights set on etching their names in the annals of Somali football history by defending their hard-earned title and cementing their legacy as champions of the East and Central African region.
