Azam FC, Yanga set for epic Mapinduzi Cup final showdown

ZANZIBAR: YOUNG Africans and Azam FC will face off in the Mapinduzi Cup final today at Gombani Stadium in Pemba.

Both teams have been in excellent form throughout the tournament.

Young Africans (Yanga) booked their spot in today’s showdown with a hard-fought 1-0 semifinal victory over Singida Black Stars.

The reigning champions reached the knockout stage after dominating Group C, where they secured a perfect six points with a 3-0 win over KVZ FC and a clinical 1-0 victory against TRA United.

Azam FC Azam FC clinched their place in the final by edging Simba SC 1-0 in a tense semifinal.

The ‘Ice Cream Makers’ moved into the knockouts as Group A leaders with seven points, following a 1-1 draw with Singida Black Stars and back-toback wins over Mlandege (2-0) and URA FC (2-1).

Ahead of today’s highly anticipated Mapinduzi Cup final, Azam FC Head Coach Florent Ibenge has expressed confidence in his side’s ability to rise to the occasion and outperform Young Africans at Gombani Stadium in Pemba.

Ibenge said he believed that the team’s preparation will play a pivotal role in securing victory over the reigning Tanzanian champions.

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The Congolese tactician made the statement yesterday during a press conference in Dar es Salaam, where he addressed questions on his team’s readiness for the crucial showdown.

Despite acknowledging Yanga’s current dominance in Tanzanian football, Ibenge emphasised that strategy, organisation and belief could prove decisive in the final.

“We know Yanga are the best team in Tanzania right now, but we believe we can be better than them,” Ibenge said.

He assured fans that Azam FC’s preparation extends beyond physical conditioning, with a strong focus on mental sharpness as they approach the final.

The coach also expressed full trust in his squad, noting that every player is fit and mentally prepared for the demands of a cup final.

“I trust all my players. I want every player to have the opportunity to contribute. I don’t want a team that relies on one