Sofapaka FC president Elly Kalekwa has downplayed the impact of coach Robert Matano’s departure to Tanzania’s Fountain Gate FC, expressing confidence that the team will thrive without him.Matano left the 2009 FKF Premier League champions on Friday after signing a short-term deal with Fountain Gate, who are currently sixth in the Tanzanian league and aiming for a top-four finish to secure continental football next season.##NAJAVA_MECA_8626876##Matano’s departure comes after he transformed Sofapaka from a side that narrowly avoided relegation last season to one that now sits eighth on the league table with 21 points, just six points behind leaders KCB FC. He achieved this by assembling a competitive team from relatively unknown players, earning praise from various stakeholders.While some may view Matano’s exit as a potential crisis for Sofapaka, Kalekwa sees it differently. He emphasized that the club has survived multiple coaching changes before and will continue to perform well.”Everyone is looking for better opportunities, and I have no issue with Matano leaving. There’s no need to worry about our future performances because he chose to go on his own. Many coaches have come and gone, and Matano’s departure isn’t the end of the world,” Kalekwa told Flashscore.Full list of FKF’s 12 standing committees membersKalekwa remains optimistic, noting that even when Matano and other coaches have left in the past, Sofapaka continued to thrive. He is confident the team will finish the season on a high.”We’ve had several coaches, including Matano himself, and even foreign coaches. Sofapaka didn’t collapse when they left, so why should we be concerned now? Nothing will change; we will keep pushing and aim for the best finish this season.”He acknowledged Matano’s contribution, crediting him with turning around the team’s fortunes, and expressed gratitude for their friendship. He wished Matano well in his new role.Kenya’s AFCON 2027 Stadium Talanta Sports City takes shape [VIDEO]”I have a group of players determined to perform. We shouldn’t dwell on Matano’s departure. He did his job and lifted us from a tough spot. I respect him a lot—he’s a great coach and a family friend. I wish him success in Tanzania.”Kalekwa also praised Matano’s professionalism in handling his exit, noting that, unlike other coaches who have left without notice, Matano was upfront about his decision.”When he came to my office to say he was leaving, I didn’t hesitate to grant him a release letter. I appreciate that he approached me personally, unlike some coaches who leave without informing the club,” Kalekwa added.Sofapaka has since appointed assistant coach Ezekiel Akwana as the interim head coach.OFFICIAL: Gor Mahia rescind decision to offload longest-serving duo
