Resurgent Zanzibar to lock horns with the Champions in Kisumu

Zanzibar coach Hemed Suleiman Ali against Tanzania during the CECAFA Senior challenge cup at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos on Wednesday 07/11/17.[Boniface Okendo,Standard]

Zanzibar Heroes coach Hemed Suleiman insists his side respects but does not fear Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup champions Uganda ahead of their semifinal encounter tomorrow (3pm) at Moi Stadium, Kisumu.

The Heroes, who have been the surprise team of the tournament so far, were drawn against the Cranes after finishing second in Group A with seven points, one behind leaders Kenya.

Despite having already outperformed their expectations, Suleiman has warned Moses Basena's men not to expect an easy game.

"We respect Uganda as champions, but that doesn't mean we are afraid of them. I think any team is beatable in this tournament. We just need to remain focused, put the Libya disappointment behind us, and play our game,'' Suleiman told The Standard Sports.

"We were and still are ready to play any team in the semifinals. We knew the draws before we came here, so we are ready.

"Despite the numerous challenges we have gone through, from financial, travel, assembling the team for training and all, the boys are hungry for glory.

"From the performance we have had in all our four group matches, I think we have outdone our expectations. Nobody had given us any chance, but here we are in the semifinals."

The tactician added that he is pleased with the depth in his youthful team and knows it will carry Tanzania's hopes after the early elimination of Kilimanjaro Stars.

"We have proved that we have enough depth that is ready to compete. Eight of our regular players started from the bench against Libya, but we played well," said Suleiman.

"The boys have really sacrificed themselves and we are now in the semis carrying the flag of the entire Tanzania."