Gicumbi FC head coach Afahmia Lotfi has called for collective effort as the Northern Province side looks to build on its impressive start to the BK Pro League season. Gicumbi have collected nine points from their opening three matches and remain unbeaten, giving Lotfi an encouraging start since taking charge of the club. The Tunisian tactician said his immediate priority is to improve the team’s performances while developing young players who can contribute to Gicumbi’s long-term ambitions. “I want the fans to work together with us so we can build a strong team,” Lotfi said. “Success comes through teamwork involving the club’s leadership, coaches, players, supporters and everyone around the club. I believe we can have a good season.” Despite the team’s positive start, Lotfi remains cautious about their title prospects, admitting that winning the league in his first season would be a difficult challenge. “We are still far from our objective and we are not even at the halfway stage of the season,” he said. Lotfi also acknowledged the foundation laid by the club last season, when Gicumbi finished eighth in the league standings, saying the current squad has the potential to improve further. “We need to build gradually and, by the end of the season, we hope to have a good story to tell. I am sure the next games will be tough for every club.” With the league taking a break for the FIFA international window, Gicumbi have lined up a series of friendly matches to keep the squad competitive and maintain momentum ahead of the league’s resumption. They will face Intare FC on September 23 before taking on Uganda’s Kigezi FC on September 26. The club will then conclude its friendly schedule with a high-profile clash against Rayon Sports on September 30. Lotfi said the matches will provide an opportunity to assess the squad, improve fitness levels and ensure the players remain sharp during the league interruption. With confidence growing within the camp and supporters encouraged by the unbeaten start, Lotfi believes Gicumbi are moving in the right direction as they seek to establish themselves among the league’s competitive sides this season. Upcoming friendly matches September 23 Gicumbi FC vs Intare FC September 26 Gicumbi FC vs Kigezi FC (Uganda) September 30 Gicumbi FC vs Rayon Sports
