Azam FC Scraps Bonus Payments Amid Performance Slump

Azam FC Scraps Bonus Payments and Sets Seven-Match Player Evaluation Period

March 11, 2025

In a bold move aimed at reshaping team performance, Azam FC’s management has decided to eliminate all financial bonuses previously awarded for match victories and certain draws. This decision follows the club’s unexpected early exit from the Federation Cup in the Round of 32—a first in the team’s history—and its dwindling chances of securing the Tanzania Premier League title this season.

Azam FC’s leadership convened an emergency meeting after the team’s loss to Mbeya City in a penalty shootout (4-2) following a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The outcome of this meeting resulted in two major resolutions, which were implemented starting with their March 6 league fixture against Tanzania Prisons, a match they won convincingly with a 4-0 scoreline.

Bonus Payments Abolished

Previously, Azam FC rewarded its players with financial incentives for wins and, in some cases, high-stakes draws. Standard bonuses began at TZS 10 million per victory in regular matches, while crucial games saw payouts exceed TZS 100 million as a motivational strategy. However, due to recent disappointments, the club has now decided to suspend these payments entirely for the remainder of the season.

According to a reliable source within the club, this decision is irreversible until the season concludes. Players will have to perform without expecting financial rewards for their efforts.

Seven Matches to Prove Worth

Alongside the bonus suspension, Azam FC has also launched a player evaluation period. Each squad member has been given seven league matches to justify their place in the team. Those who fail to meet performance expectations will be released at the end of the season.

“The management was deeply unsatisfied with the loss against Mbeya City,” a club insider revealed. “From the game against Tanzania Prisons onwards, bonuses are off the table. Additionally, the remaining matches will serve as a performance assessment period. The coach has been instructed to closely monitor every player’s contribution.”

Players who consistently perform well will retain their positions in the squad, while those who underperform will be shown the exit door, the source added.

Struggles Before the Resurgence

Before their emphatic 4-0 victory over Tanzania Prisons, Azam FC endured a four-game winless streak across league and cup competitions. The team started with a goalless draw against Coastal Union, followed by a 2-2 stalemate with Simba SC. Their next fixture saw them play to a 1-1 draw with Namungo FC before being eliminated from the Federation Cup by Mbeya City.

Mbeya City, now through to the Round of 16, is set to face Mtibwa Sugar in the next phase of the competition.