KIUT and the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) have secured their spots in the semi-finals of the ongoing Higher Education and Samia Cup tournament, currently being held at JMK Park in Dar es Salaam.
KIUT progressed after a dramatic 5-4 victory on penalties against TIA, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time during their quarter-final clash.
UDSM also booked their place in the final four with a thrilling 3-2 win over Ardhi University, in another exciting quarter-final held at the same venue.
Speaking to The Respondent Online, KIUT Head Coach Erius Marius expressed satisfaction with the win but emphasized the need for improvements ahead of the semi-finals.
“Despite the victory, we made several mistakes that need fixing. We created many scoring opportunities but failed to convert them—that’s something we’ll definitely work on,” Marius said.
He added, “It was a high-pressure game. We took the lead, they equalized, and at one point, we thought we were out. But we thank God for the win, even if it came through penalties.”
Marius affirmed that his team is ready to face any opponent in the semi-finals, scheduled for this Saturday.
Tournament official Mirunde Chacha extended his appreciation to all teams that reached the quarter-finals, commending them for their strong performances and competitive spirit.
He confirmed that the final two semi-finalists will be decided today, as CBE face off against St. Joseph, while IFM take on DIT. The winners will join KIUT and UDSM in the semi-finals set to begin on May 4.
“We are expecting several special guests during the semi-finals, including a chief guest, although official confirmation is still pending,” Chacha added.
He also encouraged students, supporters, and football fans to come out in large numbers to cheer for their teams and help create an electrifying atmosphere.