Matthew Manda: The Complete Story Of Tanzania's Top Goalkeeper

Lionel Gulgowski 18 May 2025

Who truly commands the goalpost in Tanzanian football? The answer echoes with the name Matthew Manda, a guardian between the sticks whose prowess has made him a formidable force both on the domestic and international stage.

Matthew Manda is more than just a name; he is a testament to the burgeoning talent in Tanzanian football. As a professional footballer, Manda's primary role is as a goalkeeper, a position he executes with a blend of agility, strategic acumen, and unwavering focus. He currently showcases his skills for the Tanzania national football team, affectionately known as the Taifa Stars, and Coastal Union, a club deeply rooted in the Tanzanian Premier League.

Manda's journey in professional football commenced in 2011 with Azam FC, a club renowned for its commitment to nurturing young talent. It was here that Manda honed his skills and contributed significantly to Azam's triumphs, most notably their Tanzanian Premier League victories in 2014 and 2015. His stellar performances caught the eye of Simba SC, another powerhouse in Tanzanian football, leading to a transfer in 2016. At Simba, Manda continued to excel, adding two more league titles to his name in 2017 and 2018. In 2020, he sought a new challenge, joining Coastal Union, where he continues to be a pivotal figure.

His dedication and skill weren't limited to the domestic scene. Manda earned his first international cap for Tanzania in 2013, marking the beginning of a distinguished career representing his nation. He was an integral part of the squad that clinched the CECAFA Cup in 2019, a moment of national pride for Tanzania and a significant milestone in Manda's career.

What sets Manda apart is his exceptional shot-stopping ability, a trait that makes him a nightmare for opposing strikers. Combined with his commanding presence in the penalty area, he exudes an aura of confidence that resonates throughout his team. These qualities have not only earned him accolades but have also solidified his reputation as one of the finest goalkeepers Tanzania has ever produced. His reflexes are lightning-fast, his positioning impeccable, and his aerial reach impressive, making him a complete goalkeeper in every sense.

Personal details of Matthew Manda
Full name	Matthew Manda
Date of birth	11 June 1994
Place of birth	Tanga, Tanzania
Height	1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
Position	Goalkeeper
Club	Coastal Union
International caps	35
Dominant Foot	Right
Current Market Value	Approx. 50,000 (estimated)
Agent	Unspecified

Matthew Manda is more than just a goalkeeper; he's an asset to both Coastal Union and the Tanzanian national team. His commitment to his craft, combined with his natural talent, makes him a player to watch, with a career trajectory pointing towards continued success.

Matthew Manda embodies the spirit of Tanzanian football, a blend of skill, determination, and unwavering commitment. He is a goalkeeper for both Coastal Union and the Tanzania national team, securing his position as one of the nation's top players.

Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Coastal Union
International caps: 35
Height: 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
Date of birth: 11 June 1994
Place of birth: Tanga, Tanzania
Playing style: Exceptional shot-stopping, commanding presence in the penalty area
Achievements: Tanzanian Premier League champion (2014, 2015, 2017, 2018), CECAFA Cup winner (2019)

His contributions to the sport extend beyond mere statistics; they are embedded in the very fabric of Tanzanian football. Manda's shot-stopping prowess and commanding presence in the penalty area make him a linchpin for both club and country. With a slew of titles and over 35 international appearances, his impact is undeniable.

As a goalkeeper, Matthew Manda's primary responsibility is to prevent the opposition from scoring. This demands agility, exceptional reflexes, and the ability to make split-second decisions under immense pressure. He is the last line of defense, the guardian of the goal, a role he fulfills with remarkable consistency and poise.

Unmatched Shot-Stopping: Manda's ability to stop shots, whether from close range or long distance, is exceptional. His anticipation is uncanny, allowing him to position himself perfectly to make crucial saves. His reflexes are lightning-quick, and he has the agility to react to even the most unexpected shots.
Dominating the Penalty Area: Command of the penalty area is crucial for a goalkeeper, and Manda excels in this aspect. He organizes his defense effectively, ensuring his teammates are in the right positions to thwart attacks. He is decisive when coming off his line to collect crosses, reducing the pressure on his defenders.
Distribution Acumen: Beyond shot-stopping, Manda is a proficient distributor of the ball. He can accurately throw the ball long distances, initiating counter-attacks. His ability to use his feet to pass to teammates adds another dimension to his game, making him a valuable asset in possession.
Leadership Qualities: Manda is a natural leader on the field. He motivates his teammates, keeps them organized, and makes crucial decisions under pressure. His leadership is vital for maintaining team morale and ensuring a cohesive defensive unit.

Manda's role is pivotal to his team's success, with his abilities earning him accolades and recognition throughout Tanzania. He has been instrumental in his team's triumphs, solidifying his place among the country's elite goalkeepers. His performances have not only helped his team win titles but have also inspired a new generation of young goalkeepers in Tanzania.

Matthew Manda has been an integral part of Coastal Union since 2020, a club with deep roots in Tanga, Tanzania. Founded in 1979, Coastal Union competes in the Tanzanian Premier League, and Manda's arrival has significantly bolstered their defensive capabilities.

Triumphs with Coastal Union: Manda's impact at Coastal Union has been immediate and profound. He played a pivotal role in their victory in the Tanzanian FA Cup in 2021 and the Tanzanian Community Shield in 2022, cementing his status as a key player. These victories not only brought silverware to the club but also boosted the morale of the team and its supporters.
Consistent Playing Time: Since joining Coastal Union, Manda has been a regular starter, amassing over 50 appearances for the club. His consistency between the posts has been a cornerstone of the team's defensive stability. He has also had the honor of captaining the team on numerous occasions, highlighting his leadership qualities and influence.
International Spotlight: Manda's stellar performances for Coastal Union have not gone unnoticed at the national level. He earned his debut for the Tanzania national team in 2021 and has since become the preferred choice as the team's first-choice goalkeeper. This recognition is a testament to his dedication and skill.
Promising Future: At 28, Manda's career is far from over. He has many years ahead of him to continue improving and achieving greater success. With his talent and commitment, he is poised to remain a key figure for both Coastal Union and the Tanzania national team, inspiring future generations of footballers.

Manda's success with Coastal Union reflects his unwavering work ethic and commitment to excellence. His talent and skill make him capable of competing at the highest levels of football. His performances provide a solid foundation for the team, offering a sense of security and confidence that extends throughout the squad.

Matthew Manda's 35 international caps for the Tanzania national football team mark him as one of the most seasoned players in the country's history. Each cap represents a contribution, a moment of pride, and a testament to his unwavering dedication.

Since his debut in 2013, Manda has risen to become the Taifa Stars' undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. He has represented his nation in significant tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, testing his skills against some of the best players on the continent and beyond.

These caps are more than just numbers; they represent years of hard work and commitment. Manda's performances for Tanzania have been consistently impressive, solidifying his reputation as a reliable and talented goalkeeper. His presence on the field provides assurance to his teammates, knowing they have a capable guardian protecting their goal.

His international career has also positively influenced his club career. Playing on the international stage has provided Manda with invaluable experience, exposing him to different styles of play and enhancing his overall skill set. It has also raised his profile, attracting attention from clubs both within Tanzania and abroad.

In summary, Manda's international caps signify not only personal achievement but also his significant contribution to Tanzanian football. He embodies the spirit of the Taifa Stars, representing his country with pride and distinction. His dedication and talent serve as an inspiration to aspiring footballers throughout Tanzania.

Standing tall at 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in), Matthew Manda leverages his height to dominate the football pitch, providing him with distinct advantages in various aspects of goalkeeping. His physical stature complements his technical skills, making him a formidable opponent for any attacking player.

Mastery of the Penalty Area: Manda's height provides him with an imposing presence in the penalty area. He can command his space, intercept crosses with ease, and make saves that shorter goalkeepers simply cannot reach. His aerial reach allows him to dominate aerial duels, preventing opponents from capitalizing on set-pieces and crosses.
Exceptional Shot-Stopping: His height significantly improves his ability to stop shots, particularly those from distance. His extended reach allows him to cover more of the goal, making it exceedingly difficult for strikers to find the back of the net. He can react quickly to shots directed at the upper corners of the goal, denying scoring opportunities with impressive saves.
Efficient Distribution: Manda's height enables him to distribute the ball effectively, both with his hands and feet. He can throw the ball long distances with accuracy, launching counter-attacks and relieving pressure on his defense. His height also gives him a better vantage point for assessing the field and making strategic decisions about distribution.
Superior Aerial Skills: His aerial prowess is crucial in winning duels in the air, whether it is collecting crosses or challenging for high balls. He consistently out jumps opponents, securing possession for his team and preventing dangerous situations from developing.

Manda's height, combined with his goalkeeping skills, makes him one of the best in Tanzania. It enables him to dominate his penalty area, make difficult saves, distribute the ball effectively, and excel in aerial duels. These attributes have been instrumental in his success, making him a vital asset for both club and country.

Born on June 11, 1994, in Tanga, Tanzania, Matthew Manda's birthdate is a significant marker in understanding his journey as a footballer. It places him within a specific generation that benefited from evolving sports infrastructure and development initiatives in Tanzania.

Manda's formative years coincided with increased investment in youth football programs in Tanzania. These programs aimed to identify and nurture talent, providing young players with professional coaching, access to better facilities, and opportunities to compete at higher levels. Manda was among those who benefited from this changing landscape. His early training at Azam FC provided him with a strong foundation in goalkeeping techniques and tactical awareness.

His date of birth also coincided with Tanzania's growing presence in regional and international football competitions. Manda's inclusion in the national team that won the CECAFA Cup in 2019 was a significant milestone, both for him personally and for Tanzanian football. It demonstrated the progress being made in developing local talent and competing successfully against regional rivals.

Therefore, understanding Manda's date of birth provides crucial insight into the context of his development. He represents a generation of Tanzanian footballers who have reaped the benefits of increased investment and a growing focus on youth development. His success is a testament to the effectiveness of these initiatives and serves as an inspiration for future generations of players.

Tanga, Tanzania, Matthew Manda's birthplace, is a coastal city brimming with a rich cultural heritage and a fervent passion for football. It is a place where the beautiful game is not just a sport but a way of life, deeply embedded in the community's social fabric.

Early Exposure to the Game: Growing up in Tanga, Manda was immersed in the world of football from a young age. He played barefoot in the streets, honing his skills and developing a deep love for the sport. He participated in local tournaments and youth leagues, where he gained valuable experience and exposure to competitive play.
Access to Development Programs: Tanga boasts a number of football academies and youth development programs that provide aspiring players with the opportunity to receive professional coaching and training. These programs focus on developing fundamental skills, tactical awareness, and physical conditioning. Manda benefited from these resources, receiving guidance from experienced coaches who nurtured his talent and helped him to reach his full potential.
Strong Community Support: Tanga is a close-knit community where people support and encourage one another. Manda has always enjoyed the unwavering support of his family, friends, and local community, who have cheered him on throughout his journey. This support has given him the confidence and motivation to overcome challenges and strive for success.

In conclusion, Tanga has profoundly influenced Manda's journey as a footballer. His early exposure to the game, access to development programs, and strong community support have all played a vital role in shaping his career. Tanga is not just his birthplace but the foundation upon which he has built his success, a reminder of where he comes from and the people who have helped him along the way.

Matthew Manda's playing style is a captivating blend of agility, intelligence, and command. He is renowned for his shot-stopping capabilities and the way he commands the penalty area, making him a formidable force between the posts.

Exceptional Shot-Stopping:
Manda is a master of the art of shot-stopping, displaying a remarkable ability to save shots from various angles and distances. His reflexes are lightning-fast, enabling him to react quickly to even the most unexpected shots. He possesses an uncanny ability to anticipate the trajectory of the ball, allowing him to position himself optimally to make the save. His technique is impeccable, employing a combination of athleticism, technique, and concentration to deny scoring opportunities.
Dominating the Penalty Area:
Manda commands his penalty area with an air of authority, exuding confidence and control. He is adept at organizing his defense, ensuring that his teammates are strategically positioned to thwart attacks. He communicates effectively, directing his defenders and providing them with crucial instructions. He is also proactive, coming off his line to collect crosses and intercept through balls, preventing opponents from creating dangerous situations.

Manda's playing style reflects his technical skills and strategic thinking. He excels at making difficult saves, inspiring confidence in his teammates and frustrating opponents. His skills are the cornerstone of his success, solidifying his reputation as one of the premier goalkeepers in Tanzania.

Matthew Manda's career is adorned with several significant accomplishments at both the club and international levels. His triumphs are a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and the consistent hard work he has put into perfecting his craft.

Tanzanian Premier League Dominance:
Manda has tasted victory in the Tanzanian Premier League on four separate occasions, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level and contribute to championship-winning teams. His triumphs with Azam FC (2014 and 2015) and Simba SC (2017 and 2018) underscore his versatility and his ability to adapt to different team dynamics. He was a central figure in these triumphs, playing a vital role in securing crucial wins and maintaining defensive stability.
CECAFA Cup Glory:
Manda was an integral member of the Coastal Union squad that lifted the CECAFA Cup in 2019, a prestigious regional tournament that features clubs from East and Central Africa. His outstanding performances throughout the competition earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his reputation as a top goalkeeper in the region. As the team's captain, he led by example, inspiring his teammates to achieve success against formidable opponents.

Manda's achievements highlight his dedication and talent. His performances have consistently been of the highest caliber, making him an indispensable asset to both his club and country. He is a symbol of excellence in Tanzanian football, inspiring future generations of players to dream big and strive for success.

This section addresses common questions about Matthew Manda, the Tanzanian professional footballer celebrated for his goalkeeping prowess with the Tanzania national team and Coastal Union.

Question 1: What is Matthew Manda's position on the field?

Answer: Matthew Manda is a goalkeeper, entrusted with defending the goal for both his club and country.

Question 2: What are the clubs Matthew Manda has played for during his career?

Answer: Manda's professional journey includes stints with Azam, Simba, and Coastal Union.

Question 3: How many times has Matthew Manda represented his country on the international stage?

Answer: Manda has proudly worn the Tanzania national team jersey, earning 35 international caps.

Question 4: What aspects of Matthew Manda's goalkeeping skills stand out the most?

Answer: Manda is renowned for his remarkable shot-stopping abilities and his authoritative command of the penalty area.

Question 5: What are some of Matthew Manda's most notable achievements in football?

Answer: Manda's accomplishments include winning the Tanzanian Premier League four times and securing the CECAFA Cup title.

Resource

For more information on Matthew Manda, you can visit Matthew Manda TransferMarkt Profile.

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